Children not effectively protected under Peterborough services, inspectors say
An Ofsted report found Peterborough's services are not timely responding to risks and needs of children in the area
Last updated 10th May 2023
A new report has found Peterborough authorities are not effectively promoting the protection of children.
An Ofsted report published yesterday (9th May) said "risks and needs are not fully understood or responded in a timely way".
In a letter to the interim director of Peterborough children's services, inspectors said "responses to exploitation of children are not effective".
"Responses to exploitation of children are not effective".
Ofsted found arrangements do not ensure all children who are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse are effectively identified and protected.
Ofsted stated multiple improvements are needed including the quality of supervision; the reliability of the online referral process so leaders can be assured that referrals are not lost; and ensuring that children’s experiences and the impact are understood, and their voice is reflected in all social work interventions
The council accepted the findings, and said they "agree on the areas identified for improvement"
"Nothing in this letter from Ofsted has come as a surprise"
Elaine Redding, interim director of children’s services Peterborough City Council said: "Since the end of last year, I have looked forensically at every area of our service and how we work with our partners in health, education, police and the voluntary sector.
"This allowed the council to proactively identify where practice is good and where there needs to be rapid improvement
She added: "Therefore, nothing in this letter from Ofsted has come as a surprise, a point noted by inspectors. With our partners, we will focus on these critical areas for improvement in the coming months to improve this service (front door), partnership working and the overall support we offer children, young people and families in the city as quickly as possible.
"We are committed to improving children's services and offering the best services possible to our children and families. We will and must do better."