Agenda item

Councillor Tamoor Tariq, Cabinet member for health and adult care to present the papers, Within the papers are,

Performance report

LGA Peer Review

Along with a verbal update about where we are in the process for the CQC inspection

The Chair introduced the item by confirming it would be split into two distinct sections: the Q4 performance report followed by the CQC preparedness update. Members were reminded that the relevant reports had been circulated in advance of the meeting.

Councillor Tariq Cabinet member for Health and Adult Care was invited to present key highlights from the Q4 performance report, supported by Adrian Crook, Director of Community Commissioning. Councillor Tariq drew attention to the significant reduction in waiting times for care home beds, noting that Bury had reached the fourth highest position nationally. He also highlighted the absence of contacts being added back into the system, attributing this to improvements in workforce conditions, including the minimum wage uplift and a broader offer to staff.

The Committee was reminded that the LGA Peer Review had been commissioned and was included in the meeting papers. Councillor Tariq praised the dedication and passion of the adult social care workforce, describing them as the Council’s greatest asset. He commended the senior leadership team and emphasised the importance of continuing the improvement journey, not just sending a message but embedding lasting change. The Peer Review was seen as a strong foundation for further progress, with a clear commitment to delivering best practice and high-quality services.

During the discussion, Councillor Boles raised a question regarding the reduction in overdue reviews, noting a 39% improvement and asking whether there was a plan to reach zero. Adrian Crook responded that while progress was commendable, achieving zero was not realistic due to the scale and complexity of adult social care, which involves 71 statutory functions.

Councillor Fitzgerald asked about the registration of new carers and whether there were barriers to access. Adrian acknowledged the concern and referred to the Carers Partnership Board, noting that data comparisons were ongoing and that red indicators should not be a cause for alarm.

The Committee then moved to the second part of the item: the CQC preparedness update. Councillor Tariq provided an overview of the status, noting that the inspection process had begun. He reiterated that the goal was not simply to pass the CQC inspection but to continue delivering excellent services that improve lives. The LGA Peer Review had come at an opportune time and reinforced the Council’s commitment to improvement.

Adrian Crook explained that while the exact inspection date was unknown, the team was working within a three-week preparation window, maintaining business-as-usual operations. He emphasised that the workforce was capable and committed, and that the Council was still on its improvement journey. The inspection was framed as part of a broader strategy rather than a standalone event.

Councillor McBriar asked whether best practices were being shared with other authorities. Councillor Tariq confirmed that collaboration was ongoing, including with Greater Manchester partners and national peers. The Mayor of Salford had expressed interest in Bury’s approach, and case studies had been shared with councils in London and Cambridge.

Adrian Crook highlighted Bury’s strengths in intermediate care and noted that while 55% of councils were rated as “good,” many councils still faced challenges. He also addressed a question from Councillor Boles regarding safeguarding pathways, explaining that previous fragmentation had been resolved and that all safeguarding concerns now entered through a single front door.

Councillor Fitzgerald asked whether reporting mechanisms had changed significantly. Adrian responded that while the fundamentals remained, there was a growing emphasis on compliance and capturing peoples lived experiences, which would be strengthened in future reports.

The Committee acknowledged the hard work of the adult social care team and expressed appreciation for their continued efforts.

It was agreed                      

• The update be noted