Joint inspection highlights strengths and improvement areas in Neath Port Talbot learning disability services

Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) and Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) have completed a joint assurance check of community learning disability services in Neath Port Talbot, highlighting strong person-centred care while identifying several areas where further improvement is needed.

The inspection took place between 9 and 11 June 2026 and assessed how the local authority’s social services and health board are meeting their statutory responsibilities in delivering learning disability services.

Inspectors found that adults with learning disabilities are supported by an experienced and committed workforce, with person-centred care embedded throughout the service. Effective multidisciplinary working and strong professional relationships were found to support good communication and shared decision-making between organisations.

The report also highlighted how practitioners use tailored communication methods to help people express their views and make decisions about their care. People receiving support described staff as kind, respectful and trusted, while the local authority’s consultant social worker model was recognised as a particular strength for providing specialist expertise and leadership in more complex cases.

Inspectors found safeguarding arrangements to be well established across both organisations, with effective partnership working and well-managed Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) processes. The local authority’s Bespoke day opportunities hub was also praised for promoting independence, engagement and skills development for people using the service.

Despite these positive findings, the inspection identified a number of areas requiring further development.

Within the local authority, inspectors found carers’ assessments were not always offered or properly recorded, while care and support plans were not consistently reviewed in line with statutory requirements. The report also identified a need to strengthen the application of Mental Capacity Act assessments and best interest decision-making.

Across both organisations, inspectors recommended improving oversight of demand, service capacity and waiting lists, alongside stronger coordination between services, particularly during key transition periods.

The health board was also advised to improve oversight of primary care involvement, Annual Health Checks and physical health monitoring, while introducing stronger systems to gather and respond to feedback from people using services.

CIW said it will continue to monitor progress through its routine performance review processes and expects the local authority to share examples of good practice with other services across Wales. HIW will oversee delivery of an improvement plan setting out agreed actions, responsible leads and timescales for the health-related improvements identified.

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