Children's services turnaround praised by inspectors
Services for children in Torbay have "significantly improved” according to Ofsted
Torbay Council's twice rated 'inadequate' children's service was today described as 'good' by Ofsted.
The change is the highest rating its ever had since the authority was formed and took over the service.
In the past inspectors highlighted cases such as a two year old having been seen by 11 separate social workers.
Youngsters also complained that they kept having to tell their story to each new agency and worker - something which has now changed,
The number of staff vacancies has dramatically fallen, with just three positions unfilled at the time of April's inspection.
Until recently Torbay Council was working with Plymouth City council which was brought in to help turn the service around.
The report confirms that “services for children in Torbay have significantly improved” and that this is an “impressive achievement” - recognising the authority is making a real difference to the lives of our children and young people.
Ofsted attribute the change to a 'clear and ambitious improvement plan', based on evidence of what was causing long-standing, inadequate practice in Torbay - together with a strong political and corporate commitment to the improvement agenda.
Councillor Steve Darling, Leader of Torbay Council, said “I am really pleased that Ofsted have recognised how far Torbay’s Children’s Services have come – it’s an achievement for the whole council and our partners. More importantly, the improvements are making a real difference to the lives of our children and young people.
“This joint political and corporate success has been made possible thanks to a dedicated workforce, the backing of all cabinet members and the whole council taking responsibility. We have shown our unwavering commitment to drive through the changes necessary.”
Nancy Meehan, Director Children’s Services at Torbay Council, said “This report pays testament to the passion and dedication of our workforce. It’s wonderful for our staff, partners, children, families and young people to be told that after many years of underperforming, Torbay Council is now considered ‘Good’ across all of the judgement areas.
“Our journey in becoming a more child and family friendly Torbay is starting to bear fruit. We are committed to driving through more improvements and will strive to become an ‘Outstanding’ authority so we can deliver the best possible opportunities for children, families and young people in our care and across the bay.
"One factor that supported the improvements was the establishment of the Learning Academy which has been successful in both recruiting and retaining staff.
"This means that social workers are working with the right number of children, so they build stronger, more meaningful and constructive relationships.
"Inspectors recognised that some of our most vulnerable and exploited children are being helped to talk about their experiences and express their views.
"Ofsted also noted a radical transformation and development of our Early Help Services which help reduce harm and promote children’s welfare by providing support before problems escalate."
Cllr Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Torbay Council, said “We are thrilled to share the news with our community that we are now achieving good outcomes for children and young people in Torbay.
“However, we will not rest on our laurels. We will continue to build on these successful foundations to make further improvements across all our services, such as driving up the quality of services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
"This ‘Good’ rating shows that we have the foundations, determination and ability to make the improvements required.
“With strong strategic partnerships and effective communication channels in place, we will continue to work hard to build a Torbay where all children can thrive.”