'Real successes' in social care in Wales, says CSSIW
Most people get good quality social care in Wales but there is still room for improvement, says a report.
There have been some "real successes" in care, according to the chief inspector of the Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW).
However, weaknesses were highlighted such as the response to allegations of abuse being "compromised" by a failure to deliver and record action plans.
Deputy Social Services Minister Gwenda Thomas said she welcomed the report.
The annual report by the regulator's chief inspector, Imelda Richardson, looked at a whole range of care offered by both public and private providers.
It said there were examples of "innovation and a real focus on positive outcomes for service users that provide an inspiration for future developments".
"There are many positive messages of improvement, which is encouraging at a time when both public and private sector face increasing financial constraints," the report said.
"We must all welcome this trend and a small proportion of these good examples are included in the report."
She said that in the majority of cases, citizens received good quality care but "there is scope to improve further".
"For example, in adult services, the quality of commissioning is mixed, with some inappropriate admissions, particularly for people with dementia," said the report.
"This leads to situations in which the capacity and competence of staff are not sufficient to meet the needs of individuals."
The CSSIW said a variability in performance delivery continued to be an issue.
Risk assessments following allegations of abuse were also highlighted as an issue.
"Allegations of abuse in adult services are acted upon quickly by most local authorities, with experienced practitioners and easy access to specialist expertise and intervention," the report said.
"The quality of response to allegations of abuse is often compromised by a failure to deliver assessments and action plans and record them adequately.
"Risk assessments and management plans were of particular concern."
Deputy Social Services Minister Gwenda Thomas said: "We have come a long way.
"Our investments in social services and social care are reaping benefits - but I have already said that I want to go further.
"That is why I set up the Independent Commission on Social Services and why we are publishing a White Paper on social services later in the year.
"The messages of the chief inspector's report reflect the story set out by the commission - that things are improving but that we have more to do."