Growth and development.pdf

East DunbartonshireRates of managerial and front-line social work staff are low, in comparison to many otherauthorities. The number of front-line staff increased between 1999 and 2000 while the numberof 'other' staff more than halved. The latest restructuring – the second in 3 years- caused seniorand middle managers prolonged uncertainty.Vacancy levels were higher than average in 2000. Four vacant posts amounted to a 40% vacancyrate in criminal justice.The staffing problems have been noticeably different to those in many other authorities –numbers of workers in the planned workforce were insufficient. This had been a legacy fromlocal government reorganisation when too few workers were allocated to the new authority.Following creation of a joint social work and human resources task force, additional managerialand front-line posts were created and career grading was introduced, with front line workersgiven the opportunity to become senior practitioners.7. Modernising servicesAsian and Chinese communities in the area use the services and resources of their owncommunities in Glasgow. The Council aims to provide culturally sensitive services for thosewho choose to seek support locally, or who are unable to travel to Glasgow.The Council has not been at the forefront of the modernising agenda and understandablycontinues to rely on developments in larger local authorities and in consortia of authorities.Social work is in the process of introducing client information systems. CareFirst has beenpurchased as the software package, and is being implemented on a modular basis. IT supporthas made an impact on the implementation of Learning with Care. IT is viewed as the backboneto these developments, with the provision of e-mail, educational software, links to libraries andtraining support for children and staff.All staff have individual desk-top PC access, with e-mail and Internet link-up opportunities.Partnership and consortium bids for Modernising Government Funds are in progress, in orderto develop the shared information agenda further, both with adult and children services.8. The FutureThe future range, quantity and quality of services for older people need to be addressed urgently,considering the present comparatively limited provision and the projected growth in the elderlypopulation. Home support for older people with complex needs calls for particular attention.The best value review which has been undertaken needs to be completed as a matter of urgency,so that the Council can make well-informed decisions on priorities for service development.The Council should develop and expand local area co-ordination for adults and children withlearning disabilities.The Council and partners should build on current progress to reach agreement on comprehensivejoint management and joint resourcing frameworks, and develop firm implementation plans forboth that and single shared assessment.To consolidate and maintain progress in developing mental health services, information-sharing,which takes place in pockets, needs to be systematised and extended across the board.77