Standards in services for older people have made considerable progress after a £4.6 million investment.

Despite the Social Services department at East Sussex County Council attaining a zero in last year's Department of Health inspection, a report from the Social Services Inspectorate (SSI) says things are getting better.

Inspection teams discovered serious weaknesses in the council's provision for older people and children early last year and returned in November to find the situation had not improved sufficiently to lift the department from its rating of zero.

The most recent report, details of which were released yesterday, is based on a return visit in March and notes older people have been given top priority in improving the service.

The report said many of those who received help through Social Services were happy with the treatment they had received.

Particular improvements were centred around a reduction in delayed discharges from hospital, an elimination of waiting lists for services and an increase in the amount of help available for older people who wish to remain at home.

Councillor Keith Glazier, lead cabinet member for Social Services and health, said there was no doubt services for older people living in East Sussex had been improved.

He said: "Much of the credit for this progress must go to staff throughout the department, who have worked hard to improve the services older people receive. I want to publicly thank them for all they have achieved.

"While I welcome this positive report, we know there is more to do. The cabinet and I will continue to seek further improvements in services, building upon what we have achieved. An action plan has already been put together to take forward the SSI's latest recommendations."

The council had invested £4.6 million in turning around the fortunes of the department.