Vulnerable adults in Sutton have said they are happier than ever.

In a recent adult social care survey, 92 per cent residents said their lives were at least alright or better - up from 90 per cent last year.

The same survey found 91 per cent are satisfied or more than satisfied with the services and support they receive from the council, an improvement of three per cent from last year.

And 80 per cent said they have more control in their everyday lives now, which is three per cent better than last year.

The number of vulnerable adults eligible to receive personal budgets – which allows people to choose how their benefits are spent - has more than tripled in the past three years from 500 in 2009-10 to 1,750 of this year.

Personal budgets are popular because they give people greater choice over choosing services tailored to meet their needs.

Councillor Colin Stears, chairman of the adult social services and health committee, said: "These are very encouraging results and are a testimony to the excellent work done by our dedicated council workers, but we are always looking for ways to improve."

As part of the health reforms, the Government asked local authorities to take on some of the duties of the NHS around Public Health. 

These duties become the responsibility of local authorities in April 2013 and in preparation a shadow health and wellbeing board has been formed and will lead the way in developing a joint health and wellbeing strategy for residents in Sutton.

In response to the Goverment's requirements to save 25 per cent of the budget, the council has already managed to make savings of £6million from its adult social services budget and is well on the way to achieving its £10.9million target by 2014.

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