A new inspection report has commended the practices and processes in place to ensure adults at risk of harm are safe, protected and supported in Falkirk.

The inspection, one of many taking place across Scotland, was jointly carried out by the Care Inspectorate, Healthcare Improvement Scotland, and Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS).

Reporting to Scottish Government ministers, the inspection programme ensures local authorities, health boards and Health and Social Care Partnerships are working together to provide effective processes and leadership.

A review of recent casework in the area highlighted how a “diligent and energetic” strategic vision for adult protection underpinned the “robust and responsive” approach teams applied to their work during the pandemic.

Patricia Cassidy, Chief Officer, Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership said: “Colleagues should be proud of the findings in this report, which shines a spotlight on an engaged and enthusiastic workforce.

“Staff and partners will continue to work collaboratively to protect adults in Falkirk against harm, building on the positive outcomes already achieved.

“I wish to thank every colleague who took part in the inspection process, which I know will have added further scrutiny to a challenging workload during a time of significant pressure.”

Alan Small, Chair of Falkirk’s Adult Protection Committee added: “The joint-inspection provides independent assurance to our local communities that organisations are working together to protect adults at risk of harm living in our area. I look forward to working with Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership to implement a new improvement plan to further improve our protection processes.”

The report recommended six areas of improvement, covering recording processes and further opportunities for joint-working.

The findings and recommendations have been welcomed by chief officers and lead partners in Falkirk and the local Forth Valley area, who have thanked all staff working to keep adults who are vulnerable and at risk safe.

Cathie Cowan, Chief Executive, NHS Forth Valley, commented: “I look forward to further strengthening our approach to ensuring adults at risk of harm are safe, protected and supported in the local area. A new Adult Protection Lead Officer for NHS Forth Valley will drive improvements in this vital area of work, support local colleagues and help build on the positive results already achieved from the hard work and commitment of staff across the area.”

Kenneth Lawrie, Chief Executive, Falkirk Council, said: “The Chief Officers and lead partners across Falkirk and the local Forth Valley area wish to thank all staff working to keep adults at risk of harm safe. The positive findings of the inspection report reflect the hard work and commitment of all colleagues working in this area.”

The final report is available on the Care Inspectorate website.