West Northamptonshire Council has formally adopted a new roadmap to improve adult social care services following an inspection that identified several areas for growth. The plan, which was finalised on 16 April 2026, was developed with input from local residents, unpaid carers, and community partners to address findings from the Care Quality Commission.
In a report published in January 2026, the national health watchdog rated the council’s social care provision as requires improvement. While the inspection highlighted strengths such as effective safeguarding systems and a committed workforce, it also pointed to significant challenges. These include long waiting lists for equipment and occupational therapy, difficulties in contacting service teams by phone, and inconsistent communication with those needing support. The report also noted that residents in rural areas are currently facing the longest delays for services.
Councillor Laura Couse, the cabinet member for adult social care and public health, stated that the council is focused on bridging the gap to a better rating. The newly adopted roadmap focuses on six key priorities: workforce development, communication and access to information, leadership, data and performance management, partnership working, and equality, diversity and inclusion.
These improvements are being planned against a backdrop of significant financial pressure. The council is currently managing a predicted overspend of £10.4m in adult social care for the 2025-26 financial year. This is being driven by rising costs within the independent care sector, alongside increases in National Insurance and the National Living Wage.
The council is now preparing to submit its formal improvement plan to the Department of Health and Social Care by the end of April 2026. Progress on these goals will be monitored as the authority works to deliver better outcomes for vulnerable adults across the area.
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