‘Progress’ at last for failing child services Ofsted cites improvement after horrific deaths
BIRMINGHAM’S struggling child protection service has been told it is finally making “notable improvement” after years of failure and high-profile deaths at the hands of violent abusers.
The service had been rated ‘inadequate’ since 2009 and widely condemned after a series of children died under its care, including Khyra Ishaq, Keanu Williams and Keegan Downer.
Now Ofsted inspectors have revisited the department and found progress was being made after speaking with families and social workers. It was not a full inspection so the ‘inadequate’ rating remains in place.
But inspectors found that the council “is making steady progress and has taken some important steps services for its young people”.
In a letter to the council, Ofsted said: “Although substantial further progress is required before services are consistently good, in a number of key areas, children in Birmingham are receiving better and timelier services.
“Against a longstanding history of failing to provide good services for children, this represents notable progress.”
City children’s services chief Cllr Brigid Jones said that while pleased at in improving children and the progress, she knew the department had more work to do. She said: “Of course we recognise, as does Ofsted, that there is still a long way to go. “We have always said we would need to build strong foundations before we can ensure sustainable improvements. “However, this is tangible evidence we are heading firmly in the right direction and I know there will be no complacency as we continue on our improvement.”
Council leader Cllr John Clancy added: “The latest Ofsted inspection demonstrates beyond doubt that Birmingham children’s services’ long journey of improvement is marching firmly in the right direction.
“The inspectors found ‘notable progress’, were satisfied that most concerns about children’s welfare are being dealt with promptly and concluded that almost all children are now receiving the right level of service.”
Last year, the city council decided to set up the arm’s length Birmingham Children’s Trust to run the child protection service.
It is being established and will take over next year.
This is tangible evidence we are heading firmly in the right direction City children’s services chief Cllr Brigid Jones, left