Vulnerable residents in Caerphilly county are waiting more than seven-and-a-half months for vital adaptations to their homes and that must be cut, say Plaid Cymru councillors.
In a report to Caerphilly Council, Audit Wales warned that having to wait a long time for a housing adaptation may mean people being unable to do daily tasks. Delays may also increase the risks of falls, leading to the need to access other public services, auditors warned.
New Hengoed councillor Anthony Cook, who is a member of the authority’s housing and environment scrutiny committee which received the report, said: “As a compassionate and caring society, we have a fundamental duty to look after our elderly residents and those with mobility issues.
“I have seen first hand how people struggling with mobility are left waiting far too long for critical adaptations to their homes, which negatively affects their independence, dignity, and everyday lives.
“The improvements in waiting times are welcome. However, an average wait of over seven months is still far too long. A wait of that length could possibly feel like an eternity for somebody struggling to live independently in their own home. More must be done to reduce these waiting times.”
Charlotte Bishop, leader of the Plaid Cymru group, said: “We acknowledge improvements have been made in reducing waiting times from an average of 473 days to 229 days in 2025-26 but that is still far too long.
“We’re talking about people’s dignity, independence and wellbeing. These delays can leave people struggling with everyday tasks and increase the risk of falls, which ultimately puts more pressure on our NHS and social care services.
“The council must put its full focus on reducing those waiting times further which will improve the quality of life for many people.”