Torbay Children’s services have recently been rated Good following an Ofsted inspection which took place between 21st March 2021 and the 1st April 2022.
Ofsted judged Torbay Council children services as Good in the following areas.
- The impact of leaders on social work practice with children and families
- The experiences and progress of children ho need help and protection
- The experiences and progress of children in care and care leavers
- Overall effectiveness
The report confirms that Torbay Council’s children services have “significantly improved” and that this is an “impressive achievement”, recognising that Children Services at Torbay Council are making. a real difference to the lives of children and young people in Torbay.
After years of an Inadequate rating and underperforming historically, the report acknowledges the remarkable transformation. Ofsted attributed this change to a clear and ambitious improvement plan, based on evidence of what was causing the long-standing inadequate practice of Torbay Council’s Children Services.
Councillor Steve Darling, Leader of Torbay Council said:
I am really pleased that Ofsted have recognised how far Torbay’s Children’s Services have come – it’s an achievement for the whole council and our partners. More importantly, the improvements are making a real difference to the lives of our children and young people.
“This joint political and corporate success has been made possible thanks to a dedicated workforce, the backing of all cabinet members and the whole council taking responsibility. We have shown our unwavering commitment to drive through the changes necessary.
Director of Children’s Services at Torbay Council, Nancy Meehan added
“This report pays testament to the passion and dedication of our workforce. It’s wonderful for our staff, partners, children, families and young people to be told that after many years of underperforming, Torbay Council is now considered ‘Good’ across all of the judgement areas.
“Our journey in becoming a more child and family friendly Torbay is starting to bear fruit. We are committed to driving through more improvements and will strive to become an ‘Outstanding’ authority so we can deliver the best possible opportunities for children, families and young people in our care and across the Bay.”
Learning Academy
One of the major tools that has contributed to the improvements was the establishment of the Learning Academy which has been successful in recruiting and retaining staff. This means that social workers are working with the right number of children, so they build a stronger, meaningful and constructive relationships.
Ofsted inspectors recognised that some of our most vulnerable and exploited children are being helped to talk about their experiences and express their views. Ofsted also noted a radical transformation and development of our Early Help Services which reduce harm and promote children’s welfare by providing support before problems escalate.
Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Torbay Council, Cordelia Law said:
We are thrilled to share the news with our community that we are now achieving good outcomes for children and young people in Torbay.
“However, we will not rest on our laurels. We will continue to build on these successful foundations to make further improvements across all our services, such as driving up the quality of services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This ‘Good’ rating shows that we have the foundations, determination and ability to make the improvements required.
“With strong strategic partnerships and effective communication channels in place, we will continue to work hard to build a Torbay where all children can thrive.”
A full copy of the Ofsted report is available via the Torbay Council Website
