ADULT SERVICES 'AMONG BEST IN THE COUNTRY'

Newcastle's adult services department is now officially amongst the best in the country after awarded the highest possible rating by independent inspectors.

The annual inspection of Adult Services by the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) rates the council's services as "excellent", making them a top-rated "three star" service.

The judgement sees Newcastle regain the third star it lost in 2006 following the division of Adult and Children's Social Services.

The service had previously been having been given three stars in five successive assessments.

Councillor Brenda Hindmarsh, the Lib Dem councillor responsible for adult care and health, said: "We have always said that it would only be a matter of time until Newcastle Adult Services was once again seen as being amongst the very best, and we are delighted to have been awarded our three stars."