ADULT social care in Dorset has been praised after a national report found that 74 per cent of service users were ‘very satisfied’.

It comes after a survey by the Government’s Department of Health who posted the random survey to 749 adults in Dorset who had used the services for older people, mental health services or services for those with a learning disability.

The 75 per cent who responded positively is higher than the national average of 62 per cent.

The survey also revealed that the overall majority, 90 per cent, rated the quality of their life as very good and good. 82 per cent felt they had at least adequate control over their lives.

More than 90 per cent of people were satisfied with access to food and drink and the same amount of people reported that their home is comfortable.

However, loneliness appears to be a pervasive situation affecting all age groups.

A total of 27 per cent of local respondents reported that they do not have enough contact with other people and feel lonely compared to 23 per cent nationally.

In response to this the county council has been in contact with all those who felt at risk and offered help or information about clubs.

Andrew Cattaway, cabinet member for adult social care at Dorset County Council, said: “To improve the quality of services that the council delivers, it is important to understand what people think about their care and treatment.

“It is pleasing to note that in this survey, 74 per cent of those who responded were ‘satisfied’ with the services they receive and almost all were content with the way in which the care is delivered.

“We are not complacent however and we know there are things we can do better.

“We really appreciate this kind of feedback from the people who use our services because it tells us what we are doing well and where we can improve.”