Wales CIW News

Merthyr Tydfil Children's Services Consultation, Deadline 13 May

Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) will conduct an assurance check of Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council Children's Services in May 2026, reviewing the local authority's performance of Social Services duties under relevant legislation. CIW is seeking public feedback from service users by 13 May 2026 via online surveys, and findings will be published on the CIW website.

Blaenau Gwent children's services pass assurance check

Care Inspectorate Wales completed an assurance check of Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council's children's services between 23-25 February 2026. The inspection found strong, child-centred practice with effective early help and safeguarding arrangements underpinned by supportive leadership. Areas identified for improvement include recording quality, reflective analysis, and communication with families at transition points.

Annual Return 2026: Care Provider Submission and Publication Requirements

Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) has opened the 2026 annual return window for registered adult and children's care service providers in Wales. The deadline for submission is 23:59 on 26 May 2026 via CIW Online. This year introduces new requirements under the Health and Social Care (Wales) Act 2025, including mandatory provider website publication by 30 June 2026, and a combined data collection process with Social Care Wales.

Easter 2026 Office Closure Notice

Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) has announced its Easter 2026 holiday closure schedule. The office will be closed on Good Friday 3 April and Easter Monday 6 April 2026, resuming normal hours on Tuesday 7 April. Stakeholders requiring urgent assistance during the closure period are directed to CIW's online reporting form.

Childcare and Play Practice Report for Wales

The Care Inspectorate Wales has published a new report highlighting excellent practices in childcare and play settings across Wales. The report identifies common themes in effective practice, such as supporting emotional wellbeing, embracing inclusivity, and using outdoor environments, aiming to help sector professionals improve their services.

Annual Report on Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards in Wales 2024-2025

Healthcare Inspectorate Wales and Care Inspectorate Wales have published their annual report on Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) in Wales for 2024-2025. The report indicates an increase in DoLS applications and assessments but highlights persistent challenges with delays and inconsistent application of safeguards, potentially leaving vulnerable individuals unprotected.

Wrexham Adult Social Care Services Assurance Check

The Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) will conduct an assurance check of Wrexham County Borough Council's adult social care services during April 2026. The check aims to review the council's performance in fulfilling its social services duties. Feedback from service users is requested via surveys by April 20, 2026.

Wales CIW: Deadline for SASS 2026 Submission

The Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) has issued a notice reminding registered childminders and childcare providers that the deadline to complete their Self-Assessment of Service Statement (SASS) 2026 is March 27, 2026. Failure to submit the SASS, a legal requirement, may impact future service ratings.

Anglesey Council Children Services Assurance Check Findings

Care Inspectorate Wales has concluded an assurance check of Isle of Anglesey County Council's children's services. The check, conducted in January 2026, identified strengths in safeguarding and partnership working, alongside areas for improvement related to recording standards and workforce capacity due to rising demand.