Mark Conrad 25 January 2017

Worcestershire criticised for 'serious failures’ in children’s services

Worcestershire County Council has apologised after inspectors found ‘widespread and serious failures’ in its children’s services.

An Ofsted report rated the county’s services for children who need help and protection, and those for looked after children, as inadequate. It also warned youngsters remain at ‘continual risk of serious harm’.

It is the second time in six years that the county’s children’s services have been rated as inadequate by Ofsted.

The report read: ‘Elected members and senior leaders have not taken sufficient action to ensure the protection of vulnerable children.

'This corporate failure leaves children in Worcestershire at continued risk of significant harm.’

In response, the council is proposing to invest an extra £3.5m into safeguarding children from April.

Clare Marchant, the council's chief executive, said: ‘I want to say sorry to children and families where the level of service that we have provided has not been good enough. We accept the findings and I can assure you that we are working hard to improve outcomes for our children.

‘We have made our plan more robust and we have accelerated the pace of delivery.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Housing

North West Leicestershire District Council
£64,241 to £74,525 (plus car allowance)
We are currently seeking a new Head of Housing to lead a number of key service areas Leicestershire
Recuriter: North West Leicestershire District Council

Director of People

Bolton Cares
£80,287 – subject to skills and experience
Bolton Cares is on an exciting journey of transformation and growth and we’re looking for a dynamic, people-focused leader to help shape our future. Bolton, Greater Manchester
Recuriter: Bolton Cares

Director of Finance (Strategy) – deputy S151

Nottingham City Council
up to £125k
Nottingham is a bold, vibrant, and exciting Core City at the heart of the UK, alive with potential and ambition. Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Adult Learning Tutor Maths WMF2142e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235.00 - £36,124.00 (pro rata)
We are looking for an inspirational tutor to deliver maths courses to our learners across Carlisle. Carlisle, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Adult Learning Tutor ESOL English WMF2144e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235 - £36,124 (pro rata)
We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual with experience of teaching ESOL. Whitehaven, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council
Linkedin Banner