Some adults with learning disabilities are not aware of the funding available to them, it has been claimed. According to David Congdon, head of campaigns and policy at Mencap, a number of social care areas are being neglected.

A row has erupted between the three main political parties before a health summit tomorrow aimed at securing an agreement on funding old people’s care.

Councils have been urged to step up to the challenge of creating modern services for older people. The Audit Commission called for an end to one-size-fits-all services and warned councils must innovate to save cash.

Confidential inquiries into crimes against children such as the Edlington torture case should be published in full, according to the body representing thousands of social workers.

Young people living in residential children’s homes are at risk of being “severly disadvantaged” because of inconsistent mental health provision across England, an Ofsted report has found.

Two London-based charities that provide services for people with learning disabilities and mental health needs will merge at the beginning of April.