Havering Council is owed almost �4m in outstanding social care fees.
More than 1,000 people owe money towards for paid-for services for the elderly and disabled.
The figures come from an answer from cabinet member for individuals Cllr Steven Kelly following a question by Cllr Ron Ower (Residents’ Association, Upminster).
Cllr Kelly said: “The number of people owing the council money relating to social care continues to be reduced and the total amount owed is reducing steadily.
“Though the overall amount is still higher than we’d like, we are pleased with the direction of travel and we are confidents we will collect the majority if the money owed.”
The money owed fell from over �5m in March 2010, to �3.9m this month.
Just over �1.2m of the debt is secured against property.
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