The regularity of Local Authority inspections has recently been modified following the Munro Review finds and the approach the UK government takes to social care. So if Local Authority inspections could come unannounced or more regularly than they have in past times, what can you do within your organisation to make sure you are fully prepared?

Local Authority inspections for the social care industry

The Munro Review was commissioned by the government and printed in phases in October 2010, February 2011 and April 2011. Looking closely at the state of social work and Children’s Services in the UK, the Review found that a potential policy change would be useful across social care, focusing closely on unannounced inspections to quickly identify issues in practice, process and risk.

With these unannounced Local Authority inspections comes an additional risk to organisations across a number of different industries within social care. Businesses are now faced with added pressure of being judged on their levels of preparation prior to an unannounced inspection.

However, what if you had frequent mock inspections from experts in social care? Experts in social care would give you the constructive feedback you need following an independent social work assessment but with no adverse effect on your reputation with your Local Authority, meaning your workforce could improve your practices ready for a real inspection.

Mock inspections for your business

These types of mock inspections can provide valuable insight into potential areas for improvement for your organisation ahead of real Local Authority inspections. A social care professional who comes in to examine your services can provide assistance and feedback on points that may easily go unnoticed by you, yet not by a Local Authority inspector.

The mock inspection may also act as a catalyst for change within your organisation. Feedback could expose a change that would adversely impact on you in the event of a Local Authority inspection but that can be caught by a mock inspection before it gets to that point.

Mock inspection providers tend to be experts in social care. Using a provider which has a high level of knowledge and experience means that there are often similarly beneficial services you can elicit while doing so. For instance, change management may help you implement the vital changes you need. And the services of professionals in your specific industry, perhaps in safeguarding or child protection, can supply an overall view of your company with regards to the competition.

So in advance of your next unexpected Local Authority inspection, consider the potential benefits to a mock inspection from a social care expert who can audit your business, supply helpful feedback, distinguish aspects of immediate change and assist you to be certain your organisation is prepared for anything.