Adult Social Care leaders at the council have committed to listening to people with lived experience and continuing to improve services to build on its ‘Good’ rating following an assessment by the CQC
The Care Quality Commission assessment provides assurance to the Department of Health and Social Care regarding the performance of local authorities and identifies where improvement may be required.
Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, Leader of the Council, said: “We are a caring council that gets things done and are completely focused on getting things right for our residents – delivering high-quality services that are easy to use and working for the people who need them. Our ‘Good’ rating is testament to the hard work of all our staff involved in supporting and providing care to 4,500 residents in Sandwell.”
In its report published March 11 2026, CQC inspectors concluded that Adult Social Care in Sandwell delivers a good standard of care. Inspectors noted significant progress in a number of areas and heard positive feedback from residents and carers. The council’s new Carers Hub, developed with people with lived experience, was recognised as an example of improved support for unpaid carers. The 12-week pathway for people with learning disabilities and/or autism was also praised for helping individuals build confidence and connect with community groups.
The inspection highlighted strengths in:
- Care provision, integration and continuity
- Partnership working
- Safeguarding
- Safe systems, pathways and transitions
- Governance, management and sustainability
- Learning, improvement and innovation
The report highlighted strong safeguarding arrangements, visible leadership, effective governance and a clear strategic focus on reducing inequalities.
Councillor Jackie Taylor, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Wellbeing, said: “We welcome the findings from the Care Quality Commission, which recognise the strength of Adult Social Care services in Sandwell and the difference our teams make every day to residents’ lives.
“We are committed to delivering the right support, at the right time, in the right place for the people of Sandwell. It is particularly encouraging that inspectors heard positive feedback from people who use our services and acknowledged the passion and professionalism of our staff.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank our staff. This judgement reflects their commitment, skill and compassion, and they will continue to be dedicated to helping people remain independent, safe and connected within their communities.”
Rashpal Bishop, Executive Director of Adult Social Care and Health, said: “We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the CQC inspection. It reaffirms that we are performing well in key areas where we provide services to the most vulnerable members of our community.
“The detailed report outlines our strengths and reflects the hard work of our staff to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents across Sandwell.
“While we recognise the many strengths identified, we are also addressing the areas for improvement through a detailed action plan. We remain committed to listening to people with lived experience and continuing to improve our services.”
Adult Social Care at Sandwell Council supports over 4,500 residents and works to deliver its vision of providing the right support, at the right time and in the right place, enabling people to live independent and healthy lives within their communities.
You can find out more about Adult Social Care in Sandwell by visiting our webpage.