Social care services in Brighton and Hove have been praised by government officials for their efforts in protecting vulnerable adults and offering greater choice to people with learning difficulties.

The Care Quality Commission carried out an inspection which found that the local council are excelling in both areas, and that the potential for future improvement is very bright.

The Argus say that inspectors judged that the packages of care available were of a good standard, and that those who used the services appreciated the quality of care on offer.

Inspectors found that Brighton & Hove council, which provides a large number of the social care jobs available in the South East, puts a great deal of emphasis on matters such as dignity, fighting discrimination, harassment and hate crime.

The social care team were also praised for the advice they offered to service users, as well as for offering users the chance to voice their opinions on how services are administered.

Councillor Ken Norman, a cabinet member for adult social care and health, expressed his delight at the inspectors' positive assessment but insisted that his team would not allow complacency to creep in.

"I'm delighted the inspectors have recognised so many of our strengths in these areas but I realise there will always be room for further improvement," Peterborough Today quoted him as saying.

"We will continue working to help vulnerable people understand better what they can do to keep themselves safe, and provide clearer information to people who want to take control of the care services they need," Councillor Norman added.