The CQC report places Camden at the forefront of social care provision, achieving an overall score of 89% with five key areas rated at an ‘exceptional standard.’
Camden Council has made history by becoming the first local authority in the country to receive an ‘outstanding’ rating for adult social care under the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) new assessment system. The report, published following an inspection in November, places Camden at the forefront of social care provision, achieving an overall score of 89% with five key areas rated at an ‘exceptional standard.’
The CQC praised Camden’s adult social care services for their innovative approach, strong governance, and commitment to reducing inequalities. Inspectors highlighted the borough’s outstanding partnerships with local organisations, which have proved instrumental in supporting residents facing mental health challenges, loneliness, and homelessness, as well as refugees and asylum seekers.
One of the key strengths identified in the report was Camden’s approach to safeguarding and care provisions, both of which were deemed to be excellent. The Council’s work in empowering residents with choice and control over their care was also noted, along with its commitment to ensuring services are tailored to individual needs. Inspectors found that Camden’s staff consistently go above and beyond to provide compassionate and high-quality support, delivering services that are both innovative and continuously improving.
The significance of this achievement is underscored by the pressures facing adult social care services nationwide. Camden’s Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care have hailed the report as a reflection of the dedication and expertise of the borough’s social care staff, while also emphasising that this recognition serves as a foundation for continued improvement.
Councillor Richard Olszewski, Leader of Camden Council, described the rating as a “fantastic achievement” and expressed immense pride in the staff who made it possible. He acknowledged that the recognition comes at a time of immense demand and financial strain but reaffirmed Camden’s commitment to delivering high-quality care. “Receiving this rating at a time of unprecedented demand and financial pressure makes it all the more remarkable. We see this as a strong foundation on which to keep improving. We remain ambitious to continue providing the best possible care for our residents while breaking down barriers and inequalities to ensure that everyone in Camden can live well in a community that truly cares.”
Councillor Anna Wright, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the positive and inclusive culture within Camden’s adult social care services. She attributed the rating to the hard work and commitment of the staff and partners involved in the borough’s social care provision. “This ‘outstanding’ rating is a testament to the dedication, compassion, and expertise of our adult social care staff. I am incredibly proud that their hard work and commitment have been recognised in this way.”
She also pointed to Camden’s willingness to embrace innovation and continuous improvement, citing the strong partnerships developed with providers, health services, and the wider community as key to delivering the best possible outcomes for residents. “The report highlights Camden’s positive and inclusive culture and our willingness to innovate and to test and learn. It’s great to see the report also highlights the strong partnerships that we have built—to deliver the best possible outcomes for our residents. This achievement is something we can be truly proud of, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every one of our staff and our partners who made it possible.”
The CQC’s findings illustrate how Camden’s adult social care services have set a new standard for excellence. Inspectors noted that Camden residents were consistently supported to have choice and control over their care, while carers from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ communities, played an active role in shaping carers’ action plans. The Council’s collaborative approach was further demonstrated through community-based initiatives aimed at tackling social isolation, particularly among young people and home care users.
Camden’s adult social care vision, co-produced through a citizens’ assembly, was another standout feature of the report. This approach reflects the borough’s commitment to person-centred, self-directed support and power sharing with those who rely on care services. The Council has also made significant strides in supporting people experiencing multiple disadvantages, such as poor mental health, homelessness, and substance misuse.
Early interventions and informal support have been at the heart of Camden’s approach, ensuring that care is tailored to individual residents’ needs at every stage. The report also noted that Camden’s use of innovative methods, such as art-based projects, has helped deepen learning and drive further improvements in service provision.
Camden’s ‘outstanding’ rating sets a precedent for local authorities across the country, demonstrating that even in the face of growing demand and financial constraints, it is possible to deliver high-quality, compassionate, and innovative social care.
