SOCIAL services bosses at Worcestershire County Council have been told to "investigate urgently" five areas of provision following the publication of annual performance indicators.

But the table shows the department has turned the corner and is heading in the right direction after a cash crisis last year.

Problem areas include assessments of older people, children's health and delivery of equipment.

Chief executive Rob Sykes said the problems were down to funding which was being addressed.

He added: "The report proves social services is making real progress and I expect that to continue over the coming year.

"The main problem areas are all about funding and members are aware this has to be addressed."

A statement issued by the authority said the 50 indicators show the department is making progress towards delivering high quality standards of service.

More than half of the indicators showed Worcestershire's performance level was acceptable or better than acceptable.

Top marks were achieved in, among other areas, the county's assessment of adults, looking after children absent from school, and the inspection of children's and adults' homes.

The performance indicators are Government ratings of 50 areas of the directorate's services.