Birmingham children’s services show continuing improvement

Ofsted inspectors visited the city council in May to review progress made since its last full inspection in September 2016. It found that the council is ‘making steady progress, and has taken some important steps in improving services for its children and young people’.

The inspectors focused on progress made concerning help and protection, examining case records and speaking to social workers, managers, and even the families receiving the services. In doing so, they found that ‘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 long-standing history of failing to provide good services for children, this represents notable progress’.

In addition to this, Ofsted found that response times to children in need are quicker, management oversight has developed, the majority of assessments were completed without delay and the staff morale is good overall.

Brigid Jones, cabinet member for children and families, said: “I’m very pleased to see that the steady progress we have made is being recognised; this reflects a tremendous amount of work from a huge cast of people who have worked tirelessly to get the best outcomes for our children and families. Of course we recognise – as does Ofsted – that there is still a long way to go; we have always said that we would need to build strong foundations before we can ensure sustainable improvements.”

John Clancy, the leader of Birmingham City Council, 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.”