The Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 23 September 2026. The committee received an update on the Care Quality Commission's (CQC) assurance for adult social care, discussed the extension of the Disabled Facilities Grant Works Framework, and reviewed the committee's performance framework and work programme.

Adult Social Care – Care Quality Commission (CQC) Assurance Update

The committee was invited to note the published CQC local authority assessment outcome, the changes secured through factual accuracy, the strengths and areas of improvement identified, the incorporation of improvement activity into existing governance arrangements, and the CQC's response to the council's rating assurance process review request. Martin Samuels, Executive Director for Adult Care and Community Wellbeing, explained the process of the CQC inspection and the council's concerns regarding inconsistencies in the CQC's assessment. The committee unanimously agreed to note the published CQC assessment outcome, the strengths and areas for improvement identified, the outcome of the factual accuracy and rating assurance process, and the incorporation of actions into the adults' improvement programme. They also requested a further progress report to scrutiny, setting out measurable delivery outcomes.

Disabled Facilities Grant Works Framework Extension

The committee considered a report recommending a 12-month extension to the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) Works Framework. Martin Samuels explained that the current framework was due to expire on 31 March 2027, and due to uncertainty surrounding Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Lincolnshire, a full re-procurement was not feasible within the remaining timeframe. The proposed extension, until 31 March 2028, would allow for proper planning and implementation of future delivery arrangements. Councillor T V Young raised concerns about the disparity in funding allocations between districts and the potential for delays in the DFG process. Martin Samuels clarified that DFG allocations are determined by a national formula and that the county council cannot independently adjust these amounts. Councillor C J Reeve inquired about an administration fee for North Lincolnshire Council's participation in the framework, which was noted for future exploration. Councillor Cary asked for evidence of how DFGs reduce demand on adult social care and hospitals, and Martin Samuels confirmed that data shows a clear correlation between people receiving DFGs and a reduction in demand for adult social care, representing good value for money. The committee unanimously agreed to recommend that their comments be reported to the Executive ahead of their decision on 6 October 2026.

Scrutiny Committee Performance Framework 2026-27 Quarter 1

The committee reviewed the performance of adult care and public health services for the first quarter of 2026-27. Martin Samuels reported that overall performance was positive, with two measures exceeding targets, seven achieving targets, and one not meeting target. Key strengths were identified in safeguarding and reablement services. Admissions to residential and nursing care for older adults remained below target. However, the target for people supported to successfully quit smoking was not met. Councillor K E Lee raised concerns about the number of people not reviewed within 12 months, and data was provided showing that 231 people were waiting for reviews beyond 12 months. The committee unanimously agreed to consider and comment on the Quarter 1 performance for adult care and public health.

Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee Work Programme

The committee reviewed its work programme for the upcoming year. Hannah Hunter, Scrutiny Officer, outlined the items scheduled for the next meeting on 4 November 2026, including reports on the Lincolnshire Safeguarding Adults Board annual report, the recommissioning of Lincolnshire Sensory Services, the future of the housing-related support service, advocacy services, direct payment support service, and intermediate care preparations for winter 2027-2028. Martin Samuels noted that three of these recommissioning items would likely be consolidated into a single report. The committee approved the planned work programme for 2026 and beyond, subject to considerations, and noted Councillor K E Lee's abstention due to concerns about the balance of items for the November meeting.