The Ofsted Report
“This inspection has found extensive and consistent evidence of good progress overall and good capacity for further improvement.” Ofsted 2010
Both in January and August 2010, we have been delighted by Ofsted's findings. We knew we were making progress, but it was hugely satisfying to have our good work officially recognised and, in August, confirmed to be continually improving. Click here to read the full report. Here’s just a flavour of the kind of things they said.
“There is an increased level of confidence and morale in the area that is enabling managers and staff to look forward with greater enthusiasm and commitment....Improved assessments, case recording and more effective child-protection planning, including better multi-agency working, are improving the capacity of the council to safeguard and protect children.... a workforce that is looking forward with confidence and a clearer sense of professional accountability... Managers are continuing to demonstrate leadership and rigour in their approach.... the accessibility of managers through a combination of formal supervision and ‘on the floor’ presence which has created a positive sense of direction accompanied by a culture of greater openness with a clearer sense of professional accountability....”
The good news didn’t stop there. Ofsted’s inspectors also identified a number of new developments that not only lay at the heart of our progress, but which will also pave the way for the delivery of future improvements. These included;
- the First Response Multi Agency Team, which brings all key professionals together in one room to manage and respond to all new incoming work,
- the Safeguarding Champions Scheme which ensures all senior managers, including the Director, are actively involved in the care and protection of our most vulnerable children,
- the Safeguarding Panel, which brings together all agencies at a senior level to plan for children in need of protection and construct packages of support as required, and
- our innovative work with the Tavistock Institute to provide a development programme for our social workers and team managers through the ‘Hubs of Change’.
Put simply, the building blocks are in place to continue our progress to better and better outcomes for children. And with an innovative, committed and multi-agency approach to change, we’re well equipped to keep things moving in the right direction. Our journey is underway.
