Middlesbrough children’s services need improvement

A full Ofsted inspection in June found that Middlesbrough Council has made clear improvements in their children’s services department – with stronger leadership, better planning and more effective support for vulnerable children and young people.

However, all four key areas assessed – children in need of protection, children in care, care leavers and social work practice – still require improvement.

Services for care leavers have reportedly improved, with more resources and greater support from personal advisers. But Ofsted have said partnership working between agencies needs to be strengthened.

While there are still challenges in recruiting foster carers, senior leaders were praised for how they are managing the issue. Middlesbrough’s virtual school was also recognised for providing strong educational support to children in care.

Inspectors noted that a “stable and experienced” leadership team is now in place following significant staffing changes, with new senior officers striving to bring the department up to standard.

Early help services are now responding more quickly, and families are increasingly involved in decisions about their care.

Many children were also found to have “warm, trusting” relationships with their social workers, and assessments for those entering care are thorough and focused on the child.

The report found more children are being supported to stay with extended family where appropriate, with their views taken into account and support provided for both their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Ofsted said that the improvement board set up in February is developing a clear plan, and is being supported by the right funding and council-wide backing.

Despite ongoing challenges, inspectors said there is now “a tangible and growing sense of hope and optimism across the workforce”.

Councillor Luke Henman, the council’s executive member for children’s services, said: “In Middlesbrough, we are 100 per cent committed to providing the very best for our children and young people and I welcome this report.

“Ofsted rightly highlights the challenges we have previously faced, but I’m pleased they also recognise the positive progress we are making.

“We know there is still much to do. Our team is determined to keep driving improvements, and this report will help strengthen our plans.

“None of this would be possible without the passion, dedication and professionalism of our staff – their work changes lives.”

While improvement is still needed, stronger leadership and a clear plan are helping to drive better outcomes for children and young people in Middlesbrough.