Dear care providers,
You may be aware that Somerset Council has been issued with a Best Value Notice by the Government.
For more detail about what this means, our corporate response can be read in full on our website: Somerset Council sets out response to Best Value Notice.
I am writing you this message to reassure you that this notice does not change our day-to-day work with care providers or our shared commitment to supporting people across Somerset. Business as usual will continue, including our regular engagement with providers, operational conversations, contract and commissioning activity, safeguarding work, quality support, assessments, reviews and wider partnership working.
A Best Value Notice is issued to councils where there are concerns about the council’s ability to deliver best value across its functions. While it places a spotlight on the organisation as a whole, it does not change the vital role that care providers play, or the importance of the work we do together every day.
Our priority remains unchanged. We will continue to work with you to support Somerset residents to live safe, independent and fulfilling lives. People will still need high-quality care and support, timely communication, safeguarding responses, reviews, housing support and practical help, and we will continue to work alongside providers to deliver these services to a high standard.
At times like this, it is important that we remain focused on what matters most:
- Keeping people who draw on care and support at the centre of everything we do.
- Continuing to provide safe, high-quality, strengths-based and outcome-focused services.
- Using our resources wisely and making evidence-based decisions.
- Working collaboratively with care providers, partners and colleagues across the system.
- Maintaining our focus on improvement, transformation, and learning.
I recognise that announcements like this can create uncertainty and raise questions. We will continue to communicate openly and honestly as further information becomes available. Providers should continue to use existing routes and contacts for day-to-day issues, queries and escalation. You may see an increased focus on performance, scrutiny and improvement activity, but this will sit alongside, not replace, our ongoing business as usual work with you.
There will be challenges ahead, but our commitment to working with care providers remains strong. By staying focused on residents, maintaining open communication and continuing our partnership approach, we will keep delivering for the people who depend on us.
Thank you for your continued partnership and for the care and support you provide to people across Somerset.
Paul Coles
Service Director, Adults Commissioning at Somerset Council
