Checks call on abuse cases

Feb 26 2008 By Neil Elkes

THE city's vulnerable elderly, disabled and adult victims of abuse need better protection according to a Government watchdog.

Inspectors have told Birmingham's social services bosses to beef up its protection systems and ensure proper checks are in place.

The report from the Commission for Social Care Inspection of independence, well-being and choice highlights the lack of proper monitoring and assessment of cases.

Adult abuse includes physical abuse of the disabled and elderly, domestic violence or even, as is becoming common, cash fraud and exploitation of the elderly by relatives and carers.

The report concludes that while investigations start well and training standards are good the follow up and checking is inconsistent.

They also criticise partnership work with other agencies including the police and health services.

It is a criticism that council social care bosses have accepted and vowed to put right.

Cabinet member for adults and communities Coun Sue Anderson said: "We welcome this inspection and report. They have highlighted the weaknesses and now we can get on with dealing with them.

"We are putting in place an action plan and better systems," she added.

Director of social care Peter Hay added: "They recognise that we detect and investigate abuse well, but the reviewing and supervision of cases by frontline managers needs tightening.

"This is something that the staff recognise and are working to improve on."