A GRANDMOTHER claims vulnerable children are at risk across the area because stretched social services teams are "not fit for purpose".

The woman, from Barrow, said social workers did not visit her home to check the welfare of her toddler grandson for five months after she took over his care - despite her making regular contact with the department.

Now the mother of five, who runs her own business, has voiced fears for the welfare of other children in the area who she says could slip through the net if they are not fortunate enough to have a relative step in and take over responsibility for their upbringing.

The town resident, who did not want to be named, told the Evening Mail: "Social services fail to take these situations seriously. They didn't meet me for months to check my grandson was OK.

"They make promises they can't keep. I've had no support or help.

"I think it will take a tragedy to highlight the fact that social services are not fit for purpose here - that's the real fear I have."

Bosses at Cumbria County Council admit its social services teams are under pressure across the area. But they insist efforts are being made to boost recruitment and increase staffing levels.

A spokesman said: "We are aware of this specific case. The worries around lack of support were brought to our attention and action has been taken to remedy this. We are in ongoing communication with the family.

"Our Children’s Services teams in Barrow do a difficult and demanding job in an area of high need. 

"We acknowledge there have been recent occasions where staff absence has been a challenge. 

"But we have ensured there is additional capacity in place to provide support to our team of committed, experienced staff who continue to do good work to keep children safe."

A national shortage of qualified social workers has made recruitment difficult across Cumbria.

To help combat the problem, the county council is offering a £4,000 "golden hello" payment to suitable candidates who accept positions in Copeland and Allerdale and remain in post for three years.

Training is also offered to people across the county as part of an attempt to alleviate the shortage of social workers.