There are observations and suggestions within the main section of the report linked to each of the CQC themes and quality statements. The following are the peer team’s key messages to the Council:

The Council’s approach

The Council has a great strengths and ambitions. It is integrated with health and voluntary sector partners through its BexleyCare and OneBexley partnerships. This is an exemplary model built on strong foundations, however CQC are likely to be focused on how this approach is supporting the Councils duties under part one of the Care Act and therefore in preparation the Council may want to consider the following elements:

• The Bexley approach as a partnership
• How the approach impacts on people’s lives and delivers outcomes
• How the Council embraces self-awareness and a learning environment and avoid the risks of an optimism bias.

The Council may want to articulate this in its existing improvement and development plans.

Evidencing the impact of relationships on outcomes

The Council’s approach to integrated working was incredibly impressive and likely to be one of the most mature relationships in the Country. This was evident in the place-based working arrangements, the Safeguarding Adults Board approach, and the OneBexley approach.

Although there were some specific exceptions, which are highlighted within the report, relationships, and commitment to the approach across the board were evident at all levels of system. Generally, colleagues recognised and valued respective health, social care, and voluntary sector roles, were happy working in Bexley and valued their managers. This was not universal and there was an undertone that suggested some staff and partners do not feel empowered to speak up and challenge the status quo. The Council may wish to understand this more fully in advance of CQC.

The areas that were less evident in the review was how this joint working was translating into improved outcomes for people with care and support needs, particularly those with the most complex needs. There was good evidence that the approach to assessment was supporting management of waiting lists, and that those waiting lists were being reviewed, however those who were waiting were people with the most complex needs and people being supported by alternative assessment process were often receiving single focus interventions. The Council may wish to review the current practice and quality assurance process through this lens to ensure that the approach is having the having desired impact for residents.