Wiltshire Council children's services rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted
The authority's work with young people and families has been inspected
Wiltshire Council’s Children’s Services have been rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted inspectors.
The inspectors spent two weeks in September observing how the council works with children and families in need of support.
The report noted:
“Since the time of the last inspection in 2019, when services were judged to be good, political, corporate and children’s services leaders have focused successfully on strengthening existing services further, investing in new preventative services and teams.
“While levels of need have risen in much of the country, this investment, particularly in preventative services, has helped to ensure that the level of need for children’s services remains stable and services are meeting more children’s needs well.”
Inspectors have also recognised how children feature strongly across the Council's strategic plans and the continued investment in children’s services is making a significant difference to an increasing number of children’s lives, with the report saying:
“The highly successful cross-council work to deliver improved support and services for children and young people in respect of housing, the care leaver offer, and in safeguarding young adults is perhaps the best illustration of the Wiltshire ‘one council approach’ for children.”
The teams were rated Outstanding in key areas including; impact of leaders on social work practice with children and families, the experiences and progress of children in care, the experiences and progress of care leavers and overall effectiveness.
Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said:
“I want to congratulate the hardworking staff who have been recognised as providing this Outstanding support and care to make a positive difference to children and young people’s lives. We want the very best for all our children and young people, so they are not held back by circumstances.
"We will do everything in our power to be the very best corporate parent and provide excellent support and care. Ofsted has recognised across the board the council is fully committed to supporting every child to achieve. We have always wanted to focus on achieving the highest rating as a reflection of our firm commitment to our children and young people.
“We listen to our children and young people and families, and this feedback and interaction has really steered the way we have moved forward. We are never complacent, and we will always be looking at how we can improve still further to maintain high standards and to provide the best opportunities for all.”
Terence Herbert, Chief Executive at Wiltshire Council praised staff for the clear vision and dedication which has made a difference to children and young people's lives:
"I would like to say a huge thank you to our hardworking staff who demonstrate tremendous commitment to ensuring our children and young people are given the support to succeed. That is what we are here to do, and I'm pleased that this has been recognised by Ofsted.”