A Local Government Association peer challenge urged Cumberland Council to take immediate action on a ‘significant’ safeguarding backlog.
The unitary authority invited peers to offer feedback on its adult social care services ahead of an inspection by the Care Quality Commission, which all councils are due to receive by the end of next year.
The peer challenge concluded that Cumberland must ensure clearer governance, oversight, and assurance of waiting lists.
The council was also told its front door services were not managing demand or working in a ‘preventative and proportionate’ way.
Use of data was inconsistent and not embedded, peers found.
Positive feedback related to quick responses to people with most urgent high-risk needs, innovative approaches to reducing waiting lists and the use of technology.
The council said it had begun responding to feedback, including taking action on the safeguarding backlog, changing oversight of those on waiting lists, developing ‘waiting well’ guidance and updating its improvement plan.
