Six departments lose their shine

Six social services departments across England are understood to
have been downgraded during the star refreshing exercise, the
results of which were due to be published after Community
Care went to press this week.

Three authorities that were awarded two stars in May and three that
were awarded one star are all understood to have lost a star in the
latest round.

The ratings have been altered to include recent inspections and the
2001-2 performance indicator results.

Meanwhile, 12 social services departments were expected to gain a
star as a result of the new data.

One zero-star department, eight one-star departments and three
two-star departments were all understood to have been
upgraded.

– For full coverage of the new star-ratings and reaction
from affected councils, go to
www.communitycare.co.uk 
from Friday 15 November.