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This story published March 29, 2001

Reports reveal vacancy problem

Inspectors have given Essex social services a mixed report for its performance.

A report highlighted recruitment problems in children's services that the authority was unable to allocate all of the youngsters on its book a qualified social worker.

But the Joint Review by the Social Services Inspectorate and Audit Commission said there were promising prospects for future improvements in service.

Other weakness highlighted included the collection, analysis and use of data to improve performance management and to compare itself with other authorities.

Among the strengths the report mentioned were:

  • Good arrangements for family centres, children with disabilities, people with learning disabilities, people with physical and sensory disabilities and people with mental health problems
  • Good relationships with health authorities and other agencies
  • An Investors in People scheme to manage and supervise performance of staff.

    John Bolton, Director of Joint Reviews said: "Essex has made significant steps in the last seven years and in particular has made good progress with family centres and in working with the health service.

    "I am confident that Essex will continue to serve more and more local people well if recommendations made in the review are followed and consolidated."

    The report is available on the Joint Reviews website.

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