SUPPORT for homeless people and those at risk of becoming homeless in West Dunbartonshire has been praised by inspectors.

An unannounced inspection of the council’s supported housing service - which helps vulnerable people over the age of 16 to develop skills to maintain tenancies and address other needs including addiction, health and budgeting support - was undertaken in June.

During the visit, the Care Inspectorate met with “knowledgeable and engaged” employees who undertook effective care planning to ensure those using the service were supported to meet planned outcomes.

They also noted positive feedback from service users, who said they “felt fully involved and respected whilst working towards their identified outcomes.”

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The service was awarded ratings of ‘Very Good’ and ‘Good’ in categories which include Wellbeing, Leadership, Staffing and Care.

Inspectors also noted that requirements outlined in a previous inspection had all been met within an appropriate timescale, with the service now providing clearer training records for staff, undertaking meaningful audits of care plans, using tracking systems and seeking ongoing feedback from people using the service.

The service has also developed a mechanism which allows it to understand and capture reasons why people choose not to engage with support, and how it can encourage additional engagement.

Councillor Gurpreet Singh Johal, convener of Housing and Communities, said: “It is pleasing to see such a positive inspection report which clearly demonstrates how much the team and service as a whole value the people they support.

“We also welcome these inspections as it gives us an opportunity to improve and strengthen the services we offer to some of the most vulnerable people in West Dunbartonshire.

“The support we offer is vital and is ensuring that our residents are assisted during a time of need, and also given the skills and knowledge to move past a difficult situation and thrive.”

Councillor Hazel Sorrell, vice convener of Housing and Communities, added: “A big well done to the team and wider service for this positive report.

“What shines through from the feedback from the Care Inspectorate is that the people providing this service are truly putting the needs and wishes of our tenants first to ensure that they remain engaged and can move forward in a positive way when they are ready.”