7 - Four star rating for Dudley Council

 

The Audit Commission has published the findings from an independent assessment showing the council has improved from a three star to a maximum four-star rating.

 

The external assessment score for adult social care was ‘excellent’ and the housing service was again given top marks and also maintained an ‘excellent’ rating for its housing benefit service, building on the success in the last round of inspections. Culture, which includes borough libraries, has also improved.

 

Children’s services maintained the ‘good’ external rating from 2006, and there have been significant improvements in education, including the achievements of children in care and in improving the quality of 14–19 education and training.

 

The assessment also highlighted the good progress in regeneration, with ambitious plans for millions of pounds worth of investment across the borough.

 

The council was also praised for its work with diverse communities to strengthen cohesion, as well as its strong partnership working which has led to a reduction in crime.

 

The report also found that value for money continues to improve and the council has good capacity with its partners to make future improvements.

 

 

“We promised residents that we would strive to raise standards in the council so that we would be second to none.

 

“An independent outside assessment of our services by the audit commission means that we are now externally rated as one of the best authorities in the country. This does not mean that we can sit back as we must still strive to be even better.

 

“My congratulations to all council staff who have made our four star service happen.”