A COUNCIL has received a three-star "excellent'' rating for the social care it provides for adults.

The top marking from the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) says Middlesbrough's progress bodes well for the future.

The report found no "bed-blocking" in Middlesbrough because older people get proper support when they return home.

Services for carers have improved with an extra 193 breaks for carers being provided, while substantially more older people are being helped to live at home.

Assessments of the needs of older people are begun within 48 hours of their being referred to social care in eight out of ten cases, among other key factors meriting the top rating.

Councillor Brenda Thompson, executive member for social care and health, said: "Those services are delivered by hard working and dedicated staff and this report is very much a tribute to their skills."

Jan Douglas, executive director of social care, said: "It is equally good to see that CSCI say there are good prospects for further improvement.

"In years to come, Middlesbrough like many other places, will have more people than ever needing support to maintain their independence and quality of life.

"We are going in the right direction to meet the ongoing challenge of providing them with excellent care."