Ofsted has today (Wednesday, 21 August) published its report into Suffolk County Council's children's services. The report rated the service as 'requires improvement to be good'.

The ILACS (Inspection of Local Authority Children's Services) report conveys a mixed picture across Suffolk.   

Importantly, inspectors concluded that children's safeguarding is strong and that the experiences and progress of children in care were good. They also reported that 'children in care thrive'.

However, they highlighted weakness in some of the processes and systems in place. These included inconsistences with the way first contact with children and young people is processed, and the quality and support to children aged 16 and 17 who present as homeless. It also found inconsistences in the level of understanding that care leavers have about the range of support available to them.  

The report outlined seven points for improvement, which have either been implemented already through small amends to systems or processes, or are in progress. 

Cllr Bobby Bennett, cabinet member for children and young people services at Suffolk County Council, said: "It is disappointing that Ofsted didn't find all our services to be consistently good.

"However, what really counts is that the report shows that our children are safe and well-taken care of and - in particular - our children in care are thriving.

"We need to improve some of our processes and systems, and address inconsistencies in the way we do things. These things can be improved with small uncomplicated amends and a plan of action agreed by Ofsted.

"I was delighted to read the extent of praise for staff throughout the report, including the strength of relationships with the children and families we work with, and their sensitivity and compassion. This public recognition is huge testament to their hard work and dedication."

The inspection looked at four areas; the impact of social work practice with children and families; the experiences and progress of children who need help and protection; the experiences and progress of children in care; and the experiences and progress of care leavers. Although the majority of the report is positive, three of these were graded as 'requires improvement to be good'. The experience and progress of children in care was 'good'.

Following publication of the report, an action plan will be sent to Ofsted by the end of September and a partnership board will be set up to oversee improvements. The council will also carry out a quality assurance review of systems and processes.

 You can read the report here.