Child social care services in Kingston are among the best in the country after being rated inadequate only two years ago.
Independent regulator Ofsted singled out the borough as “one of the highest performing areas in the country” in its annual social care report released this week.
The council was praised for the speed with which it has improved services and compared favourably against Slough, which is still failing, according to Ofsted.
Friday, August 14: 'There wasn't a proper phone system': Child protection boss speaks out on how Kingston services have changed
Monday, August 3: Kingston Council's child services rated 'good' by Ofsted
The regulator’s report said: “Kingston took action to reduce social worker caseloads. Management oversight, supervision and direction had significantly improved in the previous year and staff were well engaged in service development.
“Children and families who need help and support received effective and timely services.”
Community interest company Achieving for Children took over Richmond and Kingston’s children’s services in April 2014.
The service had twice been deemed inadequate, in June 2012 and July 2013, following a series of safeguarding failures and the murder of Charito Cruz by her boyfriend.
The report analysed all the authorities across England for the quality of its child social care services, with the report describing children as the “most vulnerable” in society.
Against Kingston’s success, Ofsted said that too many councils are still not providing adequate care across the country.
Ofsted’s Chief Inspector, Sir Michael Wilshaw said: “While we have seen some green shoots of progress, too many areas are still failing the children they are charged with protecting.
“This report shows that the context of a local authority, including size, deprivation and funding, cannot be used as an excuse for poor performance. If some authorities can succeed in difficult circumstances, so can others.”
Cllr Andrea Craig, cabinet member for education and skills, said: “To be among the very best performing councils not only in London, but the country as a whole for providing children social care services is an incredible achievement and something we are very proud of.”
This week the borough’s director of children’s services, Nick Whitfield, announced he would take semi-retirement and work three days per week.
- Got a story? Call the newsdesk on 020 8722 6315 or send an email to jonathan.mitchell@london.newsquest.co.uk
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