Social services

A new analysis of state-funded social care in England shows steady yearly improvement. The best local authorities have improved the quality of people's lives. However, a handful simply failed to provide proper care services, while others have become stuck in the mud and appear unable or unwilling to improve further. 

The annual council star ratings published by the newly formed Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) on Thursday, show that of 150 local councils, 20 have achieved the highest three star level, 82 merited two stars, 40 secured one star and eight failed to get any stars at all.  Overall, 27 councils improved their ratings over the last year, while 11 fell in their ratings. Two previously zero rated councils moved off special measures.  But, two new councils fell into the zero star rated category in 2004, leaving the total at eight. 

Government Response: Department of Health

Margaret Hodge, minister for children and Stephen Ladyman, minister for social care, said: "Star ratings are driving improvements in social care services, helping make real improvements in people's lives locally.