The Community & Adult Services Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 13 July 2026 to discuss the Local Authority Social Services Annual Report, a property acquisition proposal for Medallion House, Q4 performance reports for Adults, Housing and Communities, an update on the Responsive Repairs Improvement Plan and Gypsy and Traveller site issues, and the Scrutiny Annual Report 2025/26. Key discussions included the positive achievements and ongoing challenges within adult social services, the proposed acquisition of Medallion House to address housing needs and provide a community centre, and updates on performance across housing and adult services, including improvements in responsive repairs and ongoing work to address issues at Gypsy and Traveller sites.

Local Authority Social Services Annual Report

Councillor Norma Mackie, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Public Health, presented the Local Authority Social Services Annual Report, highlighting the continued growth in demand for adult services, with over 7,800 assessments completed and a nearly 5% increase in people with care and support plans. Despite these pressures, the report detailed significant achievements, including Cardiff's growing profile as an age-friendly city, with the Caring Friends Volunteer Befriending Scheme recognised by the World Health Organisation. The Careers Advice Line was relaunched with unpaid carer involvement, leading to a 30% increase in carer assessments. Safeguarding performance remained strong, with 99% of initial inquiries completed within seven days, and a 10.66% reduction in vacant social worker posts, a notable achievement given sector-wide recruitment challenges. Service users reported high satisfaction, with 98% able to live independently after support from independent living services and over 86% satisfied with adult services overall. The report also outlined strategic directions for adult services, including the development of preventative services and a five-year accommodation plan for people with learning disabilities. Challenges remain, particularly around meeting increased demand and the complexity of need, with ongoing risks to the sustainability of the domiciliary care market.

Councillor Mary McGarry praised the report as the most positive report I've seen in a long time and congratulated the staff. She inquired further about the Living Well with Physical Disabilities strategy, and officers confirmed that a mapping of existing services would be undertaken, followed by public consultation. Councillor Peter Littlechild sought clarification on the £3.5 million in efficiencies mentioned in relation to preventative services, and it was confirmed that these savings were a direct result of preventative work. Councillor Oliver Owen raised concerns about accessibility issues for constituents with mobility challenges due to uneven pavements and dropped kerbs, asking if this feedback was being relayed to relevant departments. Councillor Norma Mackie confirmed that assessments consider the overall life of an individual, including ease of access, and that residents should report issues to the council or their local councillor. Councillor Sue Lent asked for more information on the new respite provision for people with learning disabilities, and it was explained that a purpose-built centre in Rumney is being considered at the feasibility stage. Councillor Carl Sangrani asked about the biggest priorities and challenges for 2026-27, with officers highlighting increasing demand due to an ageing population and the impact of changes to migrant worker licenses on recruitment. Councillor Naughton raised concerns about the Regional Integration Fund, noting uncertainty about its continuation beyond the current year and its significant impact on various services. Representations had been made to the Welsh Government regarding this issue.

Property Acquisition Proposal for Medallion House

Councillor Linda Thorne, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, presented the proposal for the Council to acquire Medallion House at 6264 Cruis Road. The scheme aims to provide 60 high-quality affordable apartments for social rent, alongside a purpose-built community facility for the Katays community group. The acquisition would be on a turnkey basis, reducing development risk. David James, Assistant Director for Development and Regeneration, explained that the proposal seeks in-principle agreement for the acquisition, subject to conditions including formal grant approval from Welsh Government, due diligence, and a heads of terms agreement with the community group. The estimated cost is £21.5 million, with a projected payback period of 52 years. A funding gap of £400,000 to £900,000 for the community centre was identified, with options to explore to close this gap.

Councillor Mary McGarry expressed concern about the community centre funding gap and the potential for a smaller space if full funding is not secured. Councillor Sue Lent echoed concerns about the space but supported the idea of a new building for the Katays community centre. Councillor Carl Sangrani inquired about the council's protection if the development fails to complete on time or faces budget overruns, and was informed about step-in rights and a three-stage payment plan to limit council liability. Councillor McGarry sought clarification on whether the scheme would proceed with a smaller community centre space if full funding for the larger option was not secured, and there was some uncertainty expressed by officers, with a recommendation to clarify this point. Councillor Naughton noted concerns around the lack of certainty regarding Welsh Government grants.

Q4 Performance Reports: Adults, Housing and Communities

Councillor Norma Mackie, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Public Health, provided an update on public health initiatives, including Help Me Quit clinics, vaccination drop-ins, and the distribution of dementia prevention handbooks. Councillor John Bridgeman (represented by Councillor Thorne) highlighted the success of community hubs and libraries, exceeding targets for in-person visits and digital engagement, with 98% user satisfaction. Councillor Thorne presented on homeless services, noting the successful closure of all leased hotels used for accommodation and strong performance in homeless prevention, with 82% of clients supported to avoid homelessness. Repairs performance had strengthened significantly, with 99% of emergency repairs completed within two hours. Councillor Dan Bradbury reported on employment and inclusive growth, highlighting achievements in Universal Credit financial support and benefits identification.

Councillor Peter Littlechild questioned when the housing emergency would be considered over, and it was clarified that this would be when demand for homelessness services reduced and accommodation was readily available, which is not currently the case. Councillor Oliver Owen asked about work on maintaining watercourse quality and pollution, which Councillor Mackie stated was outside her remit and likely an environmental issue. Councillor Littlechild raised the need for the council to monitor its response to extreme weather, such as heatwaves, and develop strategies beyond relying solely on hubs. Councillor Thorne and Mackie confirmed that this is being considered, with new developments for older people incorporating community facilities. Councillor Bradbury noted the council's agility in responding to the recent heatwave. Councillor McGarry asked about the percentage of people receiving benefits who are working versus unemployed, and Councillor Bradbury stated he would provide more specific figures. Councillor Littlechild suggested a strategic plan for extreme weather, including potential schemes for lending fans and checking on neighbours, and Councillor Thorne confirmed that cool spaces and lending options are being explored. Councillor Fulham emphasised the need to get the message out about available support, particularly to older people, through social media and community networks. Councillor Littlechild added that not all older people are online, and information is also provided through printed resources and care providers.

Update on Responsive Repairs Improvement Plan and Gypsy and Traveller Site Issues

Councillor Linda Thorne, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, provided an update on the Responsive Repairs Unit, noting good progress in implementing the improvement plan following an Ombudsman report. Jane Thomas, Director of Adults, Housing and Communities, detailed the completion of all Ombudsman recommendations, including apologies, financial redress, and policy updates. An audit of records identified 43 cases significantly affected by service issues, with £11,100 in redress paid. The Repairs Improvement Plan has seen a significant reduction in unallocated work and performance for emergency and priority urgent cases is within target. Challenges remain with recruitment for the Responsive Repairs Unit, but new technology and improved customer service processes are being implemented.

Matthew Evans, Operational Manager for Specialist Accommodation and Support, presented on Gypsy and Traveller site issues, detailing the Ombudsman's investigation into the Rover Way site, which identified failings in meeting housing needs, overcrowding, and the condition of utility blocks. Significant progress has been made, including shoreline defence works, the purchase of land for a new site expected to deliver approximately 70 new pitches, and refurbishment of utility blocks. A new prepayment metering system for electricity and water has been installed, improving services for residents. Despite progress, Rover Way remains overcrowded, and work continues to address the need for additional pitches.

Councillor Peter Littlechild inquired about the causes of damp and mould, and it was explained that it can be due to property age, overcrowding, leaks, or structural issues, with a focus on early intervention and identifying the root cause. Councillor Fong highlighted the innovative approaches being taken to prevent issues like blocked gutters and roof problems. Councillor McGarry asked about the communal facilities at the Gypsy and Traveller sites, and it was clarified that utility blocks are individual to each pitch, and those who refused upgrades had signed waivers. Councillor Fong expressed frustration over the reduction in planned additional pitches due to constraints. Councillor Naughton inquired about how utility companies could discriminate in service provision, and it was explained that the council now manages electricity supply, with costs passed on, and that new pitches will have direct supply.

Scrutiny Annual Report 2025/26

The Committee reviewed the draft Scrutiny Annual Report 2025/26, which highlights key achievements and the impact of scrutiny work throughout the year. Members were asked to review, amend if necessary, and approve the report for submission to Full Council. The report details the work of the five scrutiny committees, their membership, purpose, and key achievements, including inquiries into areas such as access to adult social care for ethnic minority communities, the visitor levy, and housing issues. The report also outlines the scrutiny priorities for 2026/27. The Committee agreed to approve the report.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the Way Forward, where members agreed on comments, observations, and recommendations to be passed to the relevant Cabinet Members. The committee also noted concerns regarding the lack of certainty around Welsh Government grants.