The Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee met to discuss the Barnet Adult Safeguarding Board Annual Report, received updates on adult social care performance and the implementation of a task and finish group's recommendations on GP access. The committee also reviewed the council's forward plans and received information on the merger of Integrated Care Boards.

Barnet Adult Safeguarding Board Annual Report

The committee received the Barnet Adult Safeguarding Board Annual Report for 2024-25. The report detailed the board's activities, including its work on preventing abuse and neglect, promoting a culture of shared responsibility, and adopting a whole-system approach. It highlighted a 12.5% increase in individuals involved in safeguarding concerns compared to the previous year, with neglect and omission being the most common types of risk identified. The report also noted that the Care Quality Commission (CQC) had complimented the council's robust approach to safeguarding. The committee was assured that the report would be published on the council's website.

Adult Social Care Performance Report

The committee reviewed the Adult Social Care Performance Report for Q1 2025-26. The report indicated a slight increase in ASCOF indicators in quartiles 1 and 2 compared to the previous year. However, concerns were raised regarding the adjusted social care-related quality of life measure, which had decreased, and the overall low satisfaction scores for social contact. Officers explained that these measures are complex and influenced by various factors, including survey response rates and the subjective nature of user perception. The report also highlighted risks related to financial sustainability and the potential impact of NHS restructuring on service delivery.

Update on Primary Care (GP) Access Task and Finish Group

An update was provided on the implementation of recommendations from the Primary Care (GP) Access Task and Finish Group. The committee heard about three patient information leaflets developed by the Community Barnet Plus Primary Care Group: a patient information sheet, a care navigation sheet, and a remote consultation sheet. These leaflets aim to help residents navigate the NHS system more effectively and understand different care options. The Director of Public Health indicated a commitment to disseminating these leaflets across the borough, with the agreement of the Cabinet Member for Health & Social Care.

Integrated Care Board (ICB) Merger and Healthwatch Update

The committee received an update on the proposed merger of the North Central London (NCL) and West London ICBs. Concerns were raised about the potential for the merged ICB to be more remote from residents and the implications for democratic scrutiny. It was noted that the role of councillors would become even more important in scrutinising NHS service changes. The committee also discussed the future of Healthwatch, with a decision by the government that Healthwatch as an organisation will cease. Local Healthwatch management provision has transferred to People's Voice, and this will continue for the next two years. There was a discussion about ensuring residents' voices are still heard within the system, with a focus on the role of Health and Wellbeing Boards and neighbourhood working.

Forward Plans

The committee noted the forward plans for the Adults & Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee and the Health and Wellbeing Board for 2025-26. The Chair mentioned that the ICB would present hospital discharge data for Barnet in September, and the NCL ICB would return to provide further updates at a later date. The committee also considered the Cabinet Forward Plan, identifying potential items for pre-decision scrutiny.