One of the key partners in the North Central London Integrated Care System (ICS), Camden Council, has become the first local authority in the country to receive the top rating under the CQC’s new assessment system, introduced in 2023 for adult social care services.
The Council, which is one of five in the North Central London ICS, was awarded “Outstanding” status, after an assessment across nine key areas, with five areas rated at an “exceptional standard”.
The inspection team said that the Council had an “outstanding approach to partnership and governance”, and the report shone a light on the strong commitment to partnership working with the Integrated Care Board and other partners, as well as the Council’s commitment to addressing health inequalities.
The evidence brought to life through this process is a powerful example of how partnership working across health and social care can achieve fantastic outcomes for residents. Simon Wheatley, Director of Place (West), at the North Central London ICB said:
“You cannot underestimate the value of collaboration in delivering high-quality services. The public sector is navigating increasingly challenging circumstances, with rising demand and growing financial pressures.
Camden’s outstanding rating is a powerful example of how strong partnership working across health and social care can achieve fantastic outcomes for residents. The CQC highlighted that Camden was continually improving and showcasing innovation, such as the East Camden integrated neighbourhood team”.
This pilot way of working brings together an array of staff from a variety of different specialisms, including nurses, physiotherapists, mental health specialists, social workers and more, under one roof.
The team – who are employed by different local partners, including the local GP, Central North West London Foundation Trust, and the Council – are able to benefit from much better integration, easier contact, and are developing innovative and more joined-up processes to provide better care for local people.
The report also highlighted the value of how strong collaboration is helping with hospital discharge, care placements, social care, and safeguarding assessments, with good transitions between services without delays, avoiding unnecessary hospital stays or gaps in support.
A huge well done to all at Camden Council, and to those working with and alongside them to provide the very best possible services. Find out more here.