by Susan Hilder

"We're doing as much as we think we can do."

That was the message from the chief executive of Kent County Council when he spoke to KentOnline about how the authority is supporting the county's population as the recession continues.

Peter Gilroy said KCC has been "pretty ambitious" with its plans as it gears up for potential social issues which could arise from the economic downturn.

It comes after an Audit Commission report was published on Tuesday which raised concerns that some councils were not ready to deal with a possible increase in people needing help with drug and alcohol addiction and a rise in domestic violence.

But Mr Gilroy said that by doing things such as cracking down on loan sharks and setting up a 'people's bank', KCC is as prepared as possible.

Audio: Peter Gilroy talks about how KCC is helping people cope with the recession