WIRRAL Council’s Director of Social services has apologised after the publication of a highly critical report.

The Care Quality Commission said Wirral Council’s performance on safeguarding adults and increasing choice for adults with learning disabilities was “poor”.

It was rated adequate on making a positive contribution for adults with learning difficulties.

The council’s capacity to improve was categorised as “uncertain”.

The inspection was carried out in May but the contents of the report were embargoed until a cabinet meeting last night at Wallasey Town Hall.

John Webb, Director of Social Services called the report “tough but fair”.

He told councillors: “I’m going to start with an apology that this service is not acceptable. People have an absolute right to have confidence in their services.

“The report says we restrict people’s lives and it reminds us of our over-reliance on traditional services.”

He made a second apology to outgoing council chief executive Steve Maddox, who was attending his last cabinet meeting before retiring.