CHILDREN’S Services in Coventry have been awarded an ‘outstanding’ rating by Ofsted.
The announcement was made nearly four years after the services – run by Coventry City Council – were rated as ‘good’, eight years after a ‘needing improvement’ finding, and 12 years after being rated as ‘inadequate’.
Inspectors focused on the experiences and progress of children in need of help and protection, of children in care, and of care leavers, as well as the impact of leaders on social work practice with children and families, and overall effectiveness.
The experiences and progress of children who need help and protection was judged as ‘good’, with all other areas judged ‘outstanding’.
The report said: “Political and corporate leaders, partners and local business leaders have been relentless in their determination for children in Coventry to succeed. Impressive, outward-looking leaders have demonstrated an unwavering ambition and commitment to children in Coventry.
“They have continued to strengthen the quality and impact of services, despite considerable external challenges of the number of children living in poverty and a significant rise in demand for services.”
Inspectors praised areas including Family Hubs, the Fostering Service, the Virtual School, the Lifelong Links scheme, and the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service.
They also highlighted work with unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, describing them as ‘highly-valued’; the House Project, that supports care leavers as they move into adulthood; the Safe Spaces scheme designed to keep children safe when out and about in the city; and staff training to reduce reliance on temporary workers.
The report also found workforce morale was high, children’s wishes and feelings were sensitively gathered, and the vast majority of children lived in loving, stable homes.
Coventry City Council leader Coun George Duggins said: “We knew we had to make great changes and that it would be a long journey, and to have come this far in 12 years is testament to the work of all involved.
“That includes the former Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Coun Patricia Seaman. She was tireless in her work to drive change and her passion and commitment inspired many. Now the work continues, and we renew our vow to the children, young people and families of the city, that Coventry will be a safe, loving and caring home for them.”
Julie Nugent, Chief Executive of Coventry City Council, said it was a wonderful achievement.
She added: “This is not the end of our journey, and we will continue to work with our children, young people and families, and with our partners across the city, to continue to improve services and give the best care and support possible to those who need it.”
Sukriti Sen, the council’s Director of Children’s and Education Services, said the findings reflected the work that had been carried out in the city over recent years, and the determination of everyone involved to put the welfare of children, young people and families at the heart of all we do.
She added: “Thank you to everyone who has helped on this incredible journey over the years and to all who dedicate themselves to improving the lives of Coventry’s children and giving them the best possible start in life.”
Visit https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk to read the full report.
