MEMBERS of Neath Port Talbot Council have endorsed an annual social services report for the 2023-24 financial year.
The annual report is given to the authority by the director of social services to review the performance throughout the year.
The document outlines both accomplishments and areas for improvement in the services, describing the way the council protects and promotes health and wellbeing, its safeguarding activity around children and adults, and accommodation for those that need it.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting the director of social services health and housing, Andrew Jarrett, said it had been a largely positive report which included achievements such as a continued reduction in number of looked-after children across the borough and support given for those fleeing the war in Ukraine.
It also outlined a number of challenges faced by the department such as increased referrals and complexity around people’s mental health as well as the ability for providers to recruit and retain the right amount of care staff, particularly in care homes.
Data in the report showed that a total 16,300 contacts were received for children, which is 2,000 more than the previous year, with additional figures showing a 16% increase in adults who had a service and care plan.
It also noted how the next year would likely be “one of the most difficult times” social services has experienced with tightening budgets meaning difficult decisions may have to be made with the potential of seeing services reduced.
Following the report deputy leader Alun Llewelyn of Cwmllynfell and Ystalyfera spoke of the importance of the review saying: “Social services and social care are among the largest spend of our departments and directorates and that is because we are working to protect the most vulnerable in our society, making a difference in our communities, and also trying to tackle the problems of homelessness and community safety.”
