Issue - meetings

Report attached.

Adrian Crook, Director of Community Commissioning, provided a brief overview of the report, noting that while the service remains on an improvement journey, significant progress has been made. He emphasised the commitment to listening to lived experiences and using feedback to drive improvement. Workforce turnover is now below 12%, and the vacancy rate has fallen to 4%, reflecting increased stability and a strengthened approach to professional practice within adult social care.

Cllr Tariq praised the work of Emma Massey and the wider team, highlighting the strong foundations that have been built, including improvements in quality assurance, the performance dashboard, and workforce development. He noted low vacancy rates across adult social care, positive feedback from the LGA peer review, and ongoing preparation for CQC inspection. He expressed pride in the team and acknowledged recent positive judgements relating to extra care schemes and the work of Killalea.

Cllr Ryder welcomed the strong focus on professional development and staff retention, describing the progress as encouraging. Adrian agreed, stating that having an engaged workforce is a privilege and central to sustaining improvement.

Cllr FitzGerald asked about apprenticeship and development opportunities. Adrian explained that the apprenticeship route includes structured study, workplace support, and training, supported by a robust programme for newly qualified social workers. Most new starters remain with the service, reflecting the investment made in workforce development.

Cllr Tariq added that Bury’s approach is becoming an exemplar for building and maintaining a strong adult social care workforce, and he hoped the positive culture could be promoted more widely.

Cllr Simpson raised concerns about high caseloads and workforce pressures. Adrian confirmed that caseloads average 22 cases, below the national average of 25, and efforts continue to keep them manageable. Every team has a wellbeing plan, along with one?to?one support, supervision, and a focus on psychological safety. He acknowledged the challenges of the role but emphasised the importance of resilience, reflective practice, and celebrating achievements.

In response to further questions about mental health support, Adrian confirmed that additional wellbeing initiatives are offered as needed. The meeting briefly noted that the Q4 Social Worker Report will feed into the upcoming CQC assessment due at the end of March.

It Was Agreed:

·         Update be noted

·         Further update from the Principal social worker at a future meeting