A statement from Wakefield Council has rejected what it describes as ‘totally inaccurate and wholly misleading’ social media posts about plans for local adult social care services this Christmas.

The council said there are "no proposals" to close adult social care services over Christmas and New Year, adding that essential services will continue to operate throughout the festive period as they have in previous years.

In a statement, Wakefield Council's chief executive, Tony Reeves, said: "There is no proposal to close Adult Social Care services over Christmas and New Year.

"Essential services will continue to operate throughout the holiday period – in the same way they have done in previous years – with appropriate staffing arrangements in place for residents who need support."

The statement also criticised what it described as the selective misrepresentation of information online, saying it had caused unnecessary concern for residents, families and carers who rely on the services.

Mr Reeves said: "It's an important part of our democratic system that decisions are scrutinised, and decision-makers are held to account. But it's not acceptable when people promote disinformation which causes unnecessary worry for some of our district's most vulnerable residents."

The council said services supporting hospital discharge, safeguarding, mental health, occupational therapy and social care provision will continue to operate over the festive period through existing arrangements.

It added that Social Care Direct would continue to provide a 24-hour service throughout the holiday period.

The statement concluded by saying the council would "maintain the strongest possible commitment to supporting our district's most vulnerable residents this Christmas".