Review published into progress of Rotherham Council
A 12 month review has been published highlighting the progress made by the council since it was taken over by commissioners in the wake of the town's grooming scandal.
A 12 month review has been published highlighting the progress made by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council since it was taken over by commissioners in the wake of the town's grooming scandal.
Sir Derek Myers, who led the government appointed commissioners, said: “This report reflects a year of progress. The Council has a stronger more responsive Children’s Service that is addressing the serious failings identified by Ofsted.
"The senior management structure is taking shape with a new Chief Executive, assistant Chief Executive and most of the Leadership Team now in place. “Elected Members are adhering to and promoting a higher standard of conduct and values. One third of Commissioners’ decision-making responsibilities have been returned to the Council. “Whilst it is clear we have to go some way to restoring the public’s confidence in the Council, our trajectory is upwards and we will seek to build on this in the coming months.
"Further progress is both necessary and expected, but a good start has been made.”
Last month the Cabinet met in public for the first time since intervention.
The commissioners will continue to supervise until 2019, but following the elections in May a new administration will be in place for the next four years. A timetable will be agreed for full powers to be returned to the Council.