PR 1630

SOCIAL SERVICES CONTINUES SOLID PERFORMANCE

Hampshire County Council Social Services' solid performance continues, with the department again receiving a two star rating in the Government's just released performance ratings.

Under the annual star rating system, every social services department has been given a rating by the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) between zero and three stars, where three is best. The rating is based on a range of performance information including inspections, performance indicators and the department's annual review meeting.

This year's ratings mean that around half (74) of the country's 150 social services departments have been rated two stars, 52 have received one star, 16 have received three stars and eight have zero stars.

The County Council's Executive Member for Social Care Councillor Felicity Hindson said: "The two star rating recognises the commitment of our staff in providing the very best care to the people of Hampshire. I would like to thank our staff for all their hard work and achievements over the past year."

"We will not be resting on our laurels, and are intensely committed to improving the services we offer to the most vulnerable residents of Hampshire, although the level of government funding has hampered our efforts."

Commenting, the County Council's Leader Cllr Ken Thornber said: "Social Services staff are to be commended for their dedication and sheer hard work in offering the very best of social care. Their continued two star rating is well deserved and a testament to both good practice and good management and I know they continue to strive to provide even better services to those most in need in our community."

ENDS

For further information please contact: Tracy Buckland on 01962 847363
tracy.buckland@hants.gov.uk

18/11/2004