Adults who receive social care support through Surrey County Council report that services help them feel safer, enjoy a better quality of life and exercise greater control over their daily lives.

More than 750 people who need long term care and support, whether in their own homes or at a care home, completed a survey aimed at helping the council understand the impact of services and plan for the future.

Findings from the survey, which is part of a national programme led by NHS Digital, include:

• 91.4% of people said that care and support services helped them feel safer
• 91.3% of people said that care and support services helped them have a better quality of life
• 89.2% of people said that care and support services helped them to have more control over their daily lives

Overall, the vast majority of respondents – 89.8% – reported being satisfied with the care and support they receive, while Surrey also performed strongly among similar councils.

The annual survey aims to help councils and other agencies identify areas to improve and develop. In Surrey, 766 people who are entitled to support from the council with paying for their social care completed the survey.

Mark Nuti, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “These findings are a tribute to social care staff across Surrey including our own council staff who work tirelessly on a daily basis to improve the lives of vulnerable residents.

“Along with the stream of compliments and feedback we receive about our staff and the providers we work with, the survey shows that their dedication and support is recognised and appreciated by the residents they serve. We know it has been particularly challenging for social care staff during the pandemic and these results acknowledge their hard work and commitment.

“It’s important for us to hear the views of people who use social care services so we can make sure we and our partners are getting things right. These findings will help us build on the work we’re already doing and go even further in enabling people to lead safe, healthy, independent and fulfilling lives.”

To find out about care and support options in the community, visit the Surrey Information Point website.

Here are just a selection of the compliments we’ve received about our social care staff: 

• Abir, senior social care assistant: “I feel you have been sent to us like a guardian angel and I can never thank you enough for your time, care and genuine compassion and understanding.”
• Lisa, trainee social worker: “I really appreciate all your support and efforts you have made to improve my life. A big thank you for everything. You are the most humanly caring person to which I have spoken.”
• Joel, senior occupational therapist: “We are truly grateful for all the help and support you have provided. It’s made a big difference to the quality of life for my Mum at home.”
• Chloe, social worker: “I want to thank you for all your support. You have been extremely professional in your approach and also very kind and sincere in all your interactions during what was an extremely difficult time for our family.”

Posted from Surrey News