The event saw colleagues reflect on the recent Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspections, which rated both services as Good and highlighted strong and consistent support from birth through to later life. Children's Social Care Services were also recognised as Outstanding for services for children in care and care leavers.
It also provided an opportunity for staff to share learning and recognise the important role they play in supporting residents at every stage of life, from childhood through to later adulthood.
The inspections highlighted a number of strengths across Wolverhampton's social care services, including strong and stable leadership, effective partnership working, and a focus on ensuring people with care and support needs receive the right help at the right time. Inspectors also recognised the council's commitment to listening and using feedback to improve services.
In children's services, Ofsted praised strong social work practice and the positive difference being made to the lives of vulnerable children and families. Inspectors highlighted the quality of support provided to children in care and care leavers, alongside the council's focus on early help and prevention.
Meanwhile, the CQC found that adult social care services were helping people to live independently and achieve positive outcomes, with particular strengths identified in safeguarding, partnership working and continuous improvement.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, attended Friday's event and said: "These excellent inspection outcomes are an important moment for social care services in Wolverhampton, but it is also important that we remember that behind every report are dedicated staff who work tirelessly to support vulnerable people across our city.
"Friday's event was an opportunity to thank colleagues and partners for their commitment and professionalism. It was especially pleasing to see inspectors recognise the positive impact that their work is having on the lives of the people they support.
"While we welcome the findings, we know there is always more to do. We remain focused on learning, improving and making sure people receive the right support at the right time, whatever their age or circumstances."
Councillor Linda Leach, Cabinet Member for Adults, added: "What these inspection reports demonstrate is the dedication, compassion and professionalism of staff across social care in Wolverhampton.
"Friday’s event enabled us to recognise the efforts of colleagues from both children's and adult services, along with our partners, who work together every day to support residents at different stages of their lives.
"We are proud that inspectors recognised strengths such as partnership working, listening to people and focusing on positive outcomes. At the same time, we know that people rightly expect us to keep improving, and we remain committed to building on these findings and delivering the best possible support for vulnerable people across the city."
