AN EXTERNAL report that is expected to highlight major weaknesses in Swindon Council's social services department is yet to arrive at the Civic Offices.
The joint review by the Audit Commission and Government Department of Health took place in September and the subsequent report was due to arrive late last week.
But it has been delayed, causing further anguish for councillors who are trying to work out next year's over-stretched budget.
Like the Ofsted inspection of the education department, the report is likely to recommend a shake-up of parts of the service, particularly provisions for the elderly and the infirm.
Any recommended changes will cost money and it has been predicted the bill could be in the region of £500,000.
But until the report arrives, no preparation can be made to account for those costs.
Council leader Mike Bawden said: "We are waiting with considerable apprehension for the report.
"We believe it is going to make our funding problems even worse."
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