The report from the latest Ofsted inspection, published on 29th October, shows that Reading’s Children Social Care Services is now judged as ‘Requires Improvement to be Good’ in all areas. Despite reference to frequent, and sudden changes to senior leadership, and a high turnover of frontline staff, most areas have seen improvement. There remains a significant challenge to recent, stronger practice being sustained, but Early Help Services were singled out as a continuing strength in Reading, and the establishment of a multi-agency hub has contributed to a reduction in the number of referrals to children’s statutory services.
Senior leaders were praised for their focus on strengthening the recruitment and retention of staff, leading to a reduction in caseloads, and an increase in management capacity.
However, for some children, particularly those in private fostering arrangements, 16- and 17- year-olds at risk of homelessness, and children living with family and friends, the support they receive is still not good enough.
The full report can be found here.