In June 2026, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) published its assessment of Somerset Council’s Adult Social Care services. The assessment recognised areas of good practice and identified where further improvement is needed.
We have developed an Improvement Plan in response to the findings. It sets out the actions we will take to strengthen services, improve outcomes and help people receive the right support at the right time. The plan was submitted to the Department of Health and Social Care on 17 September 2026.
The plan has been informed by the CQC assessment and feedback from people with lived experience, unpaid carers, staff, providers and partners. Providers will continue to be important partners in delivering improvements and sharing learning across Somerset’s adult social care system.
What the plan focuses on
• Improving access to timely information, advice, assessments, reviews and support.
• Embedding strengths-based, person-centred practice.
• Strengthening safeguarding arrangements and learning.
• Supporting prevention, independence and community-based support.
• Reducing inequalities and improving accessibility.
• Strengthening co-production, leadership, governance and accountability.
How progress will be monitored
Delivery will be overseen through the Adult Social Care CQC Assurance Board and wider council governance arrangements. Progress will be reviewed against actions, milestones, performance information, risks and evidence of improved outcomes and experiences.
Keeping providers informed
We will publish quarterly updates and continue to share relevant developments with providers and partners. The full Improvement Plan, including detailed actions and progress information, is available on our website.
David Coleman-Groom
Executive Director for Adult Social Care and Housing
Somerset Council
Read the full Improvement Plan and progress updates on our website: Somerset’s Care Quality Commission (CQC) Assessment
