A UNIT which ensures residential homes in parts of Teesside come up to standard has been praised.

The registration and inspection unit has been praised for having a thorough and even- handed approach in its activities in Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland.

It was described as being "professional, experienced and efficient", giving a high level of service.

The unit is responsible for registering and inspecting residential care homes for adults, children's homes, playgroups, day nurseries and childminders in the two areas.

Last year, the unit dealt with about 230 registration applications, made 556 inspections and dealt with more than 50 complaints about homes.

The annual report assessed the service against standards for fairness, independence, openness and its effectiveness in following up inspections.

Councillor Eddie Dryden, commissioner for social care at Middlesbrough Borough Council, said: "Residential homes care for some of the most vulnerable individuals and groups in our community, so it is essential for them and their carers that we have a full, fair and effective system to ensure they meet registration and inspection standards.