WILTSHIRE Social Services has been praised for its work by a national watchdog.

An independent review found that despite a relatively low level of spending on social services, effective management and committed staff helped the department to give excellent service to its clients.

The review was carried out jointly by the Audit Commission and the Social Services Inspectorate. Sue Mead, review manager of the inspection, said: "Wiltshire is a forward-looking social services authority which has a clear vision of the way ahead. It puts its service users first. Social services is well run from the top and has good, well-supported staff at the front line.

"It is keen to learn from experience and has effective partnerships with others. Overall, the council's social services has excellent prospects for the future."

The report particularly praises SHARP, a health assessment and rehabilitation project run in Kennet. It treats people in their own homes or in an intensive care flat provided by Sarsen Housing Association, aiming to prevent hospital admission and encourage early discharge from hospital.

The report also cites as a good example the authority's investment in family support services, which has resulted in a reduction in the number of looked after children and those on its child protection register to among the lowest in the country.

Dr Ray Jones, director of Wiltshire social services, said: "The report reflects very well on the commitment and competence of staff."