Annual Report of the Director of Social Services

The Director of Social Services has a statutory requirement to publish an annual report in relation to the delivery of the functions of Social Care, and to evaluate its performance in the preceding year. The report also provides a summary of our current position, future developments, and aspirations and some of the key challenges that require ongoing focus. These reports are about people; people we support, people that work for us and people we work in partnership with.

The Annual Directors Report 2022 - 2023 provides a comprehensive overview of the Social Services' performance and developments for the period April 2022 to March 2023. Here are the key points:

Current Position

• Responsive Services: Social Care services in Torfaen have been responsive, imaginative, and committed to delivering quality services despite challenges. The services have adapted quickly and efficiently to meet the demands placed on them.
• Reduction in Children Looked After: The number of children looked after by the Council has reduced consistently since a peak of 474 in September 2020 to 378 as of March 31, 2023.
• Community Engagement and Co-production: The report emphasizes the importance of community engagement and co-production in achieving sustainable change.

Future Developments and Aspirations

• Community-Based Support: Continued focus on community-based support, reablement services, and innovative solutions to meet the needs of citizens.
• Ty Glas Y Dorlan Community Hub: The development of the Ty Glas Y Dorlan Community Hub will enter stage two of evolution in 2023/24, focusing on community reablement.
• Performance Management: Enhanced tiered approach to performance management within service areas to inform the effectiveness and shape of services.
• Directorate Reconfiguration: The Council reviewed and realigned its directorates in March 2023, resulting in an Adult Social Care and Communities Directorate and a Children and Family Services Directorate.

Key Challenges

• Recruitment and Retention: The ability to recruit and retain social care workers continues to present challenges and pressures.
• Cost of Living Crisis: The increasing cost of living crisis and subsequent economic downturn have impacted all parts of communities and public services.
• Workforce Shortages: Workforce shortages in health and social care have continued to present challenges.
• Demand on Services: The volume of demand on referrals and contacts continues to rise, placing pressure on service delivery.

Overall, the report emphasizes the importance of collaboration, community resilience, and innovation in delivering effective social care services in Torfaen.