Sutton Council is intensifying its efforts to meet the growing demand in adult social care, as highlighted in a recent People Committee meeting. The committee received an update on the performance of adult social care services, noting a Good
rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in 2025, with particular praise for the innovative use of Technology Enabled Care (TEC).
Despite the positive CQC rating, the service faces challenges including rising demand, increasing complexity of needs, and significant financial pressures. Sandra Howard, Director for Adults, acknowledged an increase in care home admissions, attributing it to individuals remaining at home for longer and presenting with more complex needs upon hospital admission. Councillor Vanessa McCain also noted a growth in mental health need - and more complexity in that area for younger age groups as well as an older age group.
Sutton's adult social care services achieved a 'Good' rating from the CQC in 2025, with particular praise for their use of Technology Enabled Care (TEC). The service has expanded the number of people receiving TEC at home from 648 in 2025 to 1,071 in the current year. This technology supports residents to remain healthy at home and reduces the need for formal care services. The CQC Inspection report also commented favourably on TEC, stating: Technology Enabled Care provided innovation across the prevent, reduce delay space with a commendable reduction in health and social care services needed.
Additionally, the introduction of a Magic Notes AI tool
enables staff to focus on conversations with residents and carers rather than taking notes, leading to a 58% reduction in writing time for assessments, reviews, and visits, allowing more time to be spent with residents.
However, Sutton's costs remain among the lowest in South West London, with an average cost of £383 per week, significantly lower than the London average of £435.8 and the England average of £566. Sandra Howard stated that while admissions were increasing, Sutton's costs remained among the lowest in South West London.
The department is addressing challenges by delivering the priorities and objectives set out in the adult social care plan, the transformation plan and the improvement plan.
These plans aim to support residents and carers to live independently, while also delivering against savings and cost avoidance targets.
Additionally, the council is considering developing additional extra care housing and so on and so forth
and looking at whether we can increase our tech and able care offer.
The Adult Social Care budget is £83 million, representing 37.5% of the overall council budget of £222 million. While the meeting documents mention financial pressures and the need for savings and cost avoidance targets, a specific projected budget shortfall is not detailed.
The department's commitment is to supporting residents to live as independently as possible and preventing unnecessary admissions into care.
Read more about the People Committee meeting in the Public reports pack.