People in Merton spend less time in hospital and more time recovering in their own home than in any other London borough, according to new figures.

The Department for Health recorded Merton as having the lowest delayed transfer of care rates of all 32 London boroughs in 2012.

Councillor Linda Kirby, cabinet member for adult social care and health, said: “The fact we are doing better than any other London borough in helping people live at home rather than in hospital is all down to the dedication and hard work of our adult social care staff.”

The figures come after Merton Council announced it is cutting funding to voluntary sector groups deemed to be not contributing to helping keep the elderly in their homes for longer.