An organisation specialising in local authority services has raised concern about Devon county council's plans to close residential homes and day centres. .
A report by the Association for Public Service Excellence criticises the council's apparent strategic desire to withdraw from directly providing residential and day care - instead buying it in from independent providers.
It also questions the council's claim that running care homes isn't cost-effective, pointing out that many are under-occupied because they've stopped accepting new residents, not through lack of demand.
The report has been welcomed by the local branch of the public service union, UNISON
Exeter care agency rated 'inadequate' and in special measures
Raw sewage spews into Plymouth suburb estate and woods
Councillor stands under trees to stop chainsaw massacre
Three years jail for charity box thief
Spat over whether 'inadequate' children's services are as bad as MP suggests
Totnes market not opening in Christmas week
