Successes and challenges are set out in the annual report of Newport’s director of social services, Tanya Evans, covering 2025/26 against a background of increasing demand.
Points listed as going well include the launch of an independent living strategy; Newport becoming a member of the WHO age-friendly network; positive inspection reports for Oaklands respite provision for children with disabilities and Spring Gardens, a council-run care home; expansion of the Welsh Government free childcare offer for young children across the city; and the launch of the community parenting strategy.
Councillor Laura Lacey, cabinet member for social services, said: “I would like to thank Tanya and all the staff who work in our children’s, adults and preventative services. They do amazing work to improve the lives of our residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
“Tanya’s report is comprehensive, interesting and honest. It recognises where work needs to be done to improve services as well as showcasing many highlights from the year.
“These include the proud moment when Newport became the first council in Wales to recognise children looked after as a protected characteristic.
“Young people from our youth service once again represented the city at the annual Women’s Day celebrations which was held in Belfast and more than 5,000 children attended the food and fun programme over the summer holidays.
“Collaborations with the voluntary and private sector were especially successful. The Newport Partnership, with Barnado’s, was a finalist in the national MJ awards. We have a fantastic relationship with award-winning Premier Forest Products whose give inspirational support to care experienced young people.
“The council’s performance in helping people to return home safely from hospital is strong and the Baby and Me project continues to give life-changing support to new parents.
“There are many more examples of how our services made a difference to the lives of people of all ages.”
Referrals to adult social services increased by 1,346 to 10,424, while the number of children referred went up by 988 to 14,152 and the number of children in care rose by 10 to 353.
The number of children on the protection register remained stable at 132, with 229 young carers receiving support, an increase of 13, and 11 more care leavers getting support, taking the figure for the year to 310.
A total of 14,329 care hours were provided each week and 615 carers received assessments, a rise of 182. Preventative services supported 33,769 people.
