I READ with great interest your article on the Joint Review of Trafford's Social Services (20 September 20).

There is certainly some cause for concern, such as provision for mental health, as well as management issues centring on contracting, data collection and staff absenteeism.

The conclusion that the services are in "crisis" as deputy Tory leader Susan Fildes would have us believe is not supported by the report's findings.

Several services are praised including provision for children, welfare benefits, and staff training and morale.

Indeed one carer thinks Trafford's social services are "marvellous", and 83% of all carers and users rate them fair to excellent.

Chris Brabbs, the interim Executive Director, readily accepts that there are areas for improvement as there are, surely, in any large organisation whether public, private or voluntary.

He should not have to defend the commitment and hard work of his staff against politicians who publicly "condemn" service provision as a whole.

Could I also point out that a simple telephone call will reveal that the report will not be out in its final form until next January?

A considered and mature response can then be given rather than Susan's feeble - "the whole things needs to be looked at".

What kind of a leader is it that uses an incomplete report, prematurely and possibly improperly revealed to the public in this obvious and unconstructive way?

Does Susan have the slightest inkling that the "strong political leadership" praise in the report, and to which she has drawn attention means Dave Acton and the Labour Council?

Probably not.

Colin Graham, Altrincham