CHILDREN’S Social Care Services in Worcestershire have been praised for their positive progress following a recent inspection.
Ofsted inspectors visited Worcestershire County Council in December 2024 to look at the council’s arrangements for children in care.
The inspection report published on Monday (January 13) highlights significant strides have been made since the full children’s services inspection in May 2023 where an overall judgement of Good was achieved, showcasing the council’s commitment to delivering high-quality care and support to children and families in the county.
Key findings from the inspection include more children benefiting from foster homes that are well-matched to their needs, legal permanence achieved through special guardianship orders, adoption, or the discharge of care orders and children told inspectors they like where they live and feel happy and well cared for.
The inspection also praised the council for successfully navigating major changes, including the reintegration Children’s Services back to the County Council in October 2024 and the smooth transition following the departure of the long-standing director of children’s services in July 2024.
Coun Steve Mackay, cabinet member for Children and Families at Worcestershire County Council said: “This inspection confirms the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in our children’s services.
“Our commitment to improving the lives of children and families across Worcestershire remains steadfast, and it is heartening to see the positive outcomes highlighted in this report.
“While we acknowledge there is still work to be done, particularly in further reducing caseloads, we have robust strategies in place to ensure every child should receive the support they deserve.
“I am heartened inspectors recognised improvements have been made in engaging with children to influence service development and delivery.”
Visit /reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/44/80584 to read the full report.
