Dundee’s Social Work Successes: A Year of Progress Amidst Challenges

Dundee's ongoing efforts to protect and support people of all ages are in the spotlight as councillors prepare to review the latest social work report from Chief Social Work Officer Glyn Lloyd. Presented to the city governance committee, this report for 2023-24 highlights major achievements across Dundee's social work and social care services, offering a snapshot of the progress made in a year marked by both successes and challenges.

This report underlines the dedication of social work professionals across the city, recognising their resilience in the face of complex issues such as growing demands, budget constraints, and recruitment challenges. It also offers a moment to reflect on the impact these services have on individuals and families in the community. Here’s a closer look at some of the highlights and the impact of these achievements on the people of Dundee.

The report outlines some impressive accomplishments. For starters, over 98% of people were discharged from hospital to community support without any delay. This is a huge step forward in ensuring that those who require ongoing support don’t face unnecessary hold-ups in getting back to their homes and communities where they can recover and be supported effectively. Such a high discharge rate reflects well on Dundee’s integrated health and social care approach, showing that these services are working in harmony to make sure people get the care they need as soon as they need it.

Another standout achievement comes from Dundee’s performance in the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Standards, where it ranks as one of the top three performing areas in the country. This is a crucial part of Dundee’s strategy to tackle drug-related issues, offering effective, compassionate support for those facing addiction. Medication-assisted treatment is a recognised approach that helps individuals manage their recovery, and Dundee’s top-ranking position is a testament to the commitment and quality of service delivery in this area.

Family-based care in Dundee also saw a positive shift. The balance of family-based versus residential care has risen from 87.2% to 90.5%, placing Dundee above the national average. This change reflects the city’s dedication to keeping children and young people within family settings whenever possible, an approach that is generally seen as more beneficial for their development, stability, and well-being. This is a promising trend for children and families, as it points to an emphasis on family-centred care that prioritises keeping loved ones together.

Further good news comes from the completion rates of Community Payback Orders, which increased from 65% to 70%. Community Payback Orders are designed to help individuals make positive contributions while serving their sentences in a way that benefits the wider community. An increase in completion rates means more people are successfully fulfilling these orders, which often lead to better rehabilitation outcomes and reduce the likelihood of re-offending.

Adult care services also showed improvement, with a 21% increase in Care Inspectorate grades. This marks a substantial gain in the quality of adult care across Dundee, reflecting improvements in both service standards and client outcomes.

Several specific services were also recognised for their outstanding work. Millview Cottage Young Person’s House won the prestigious Scottish Social Services Outstanding Residential Service Award for 2023, an accolade that underscores the quality of care being provided to young people in Dundee. For many young residents, services like Millview Cottage represent a safe, supportive home environment, and such awards are a well-deserved recognition of the staff’s dedication and commitment.

Balcarres Care Home was awarded the Scottish Care, Care Home Service of the Year Award for 2023, another notable achievement that speaks to the quality of care for Dundee’s elderly population. In addition, the Menzieshill House Team won the Generations Working Together Excellence Award, showing the impact of multi-generational care and collaboration within Dundee’s social care approach. These awards demonstrate that Dundee’s social care services are not only effective but are also seen as leaders in their fields.

While the report highlights many successes, it doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the challenges facing Dundee’s social work services. Chief Social Work Officer Glyn Lloyd noted that "most services are experiencing increased demands in a context of growing financial constraints." With new regulatory and legislative requirements and the uncertainty surrounding the potential National Care Service, managing these pressures is no small feat. Like other areas across Scotland, Dundee has faced recruitment difficulties, which adds strain to an already challenging field.

The city governance convener, Councillor Mark Flynn, praised the ongoing efforts of the social work team, saying, “Our staff work on extremely complex matters involving vulnerable people, and there are some huge challenges, but the report shows how services have responded well.” Flynn’s words capture the respect and appreciation the council holds for social workers, who continue to adapt and deliver despite mounting obstacles.

Dundee’s social work services have achieved much in the past year, from tackling the city’s drug crisis to enhancing care for vulnerable people of all ages. Councillor Flynn also highlighted the city’s commitment to addressing longstanding issues like drug-related deaths and mental health, areas where the city has focused much of its energy and resources.

The report demonstrates that while the path is challenging, there is a collective commitment to making Dundee a safe, supportive place for everyone. As Flynn put it, “While none of us can afford to be complacent, we can see from the Chief Social Work Officer’s report that sustained efforts are being made across the city to make people’s lives better.”

As the city governance committee meets on 18 November to discuss the report, it’s clear that Dundee’s social work services have made a significant impact. With continued dedication, innovation, and collaboration, Dundee is striving to meet the needs of its community, ensuring that people of all ages receive the support they deserve. The achievements detailed in the report are a testament to the hard work of social work professionals and a hopeful reminder of the progress that is possible, even in challenging times.