Swindon Borough Council has pledged to keep up the momentum in its mission to transform Children’s Services after Ofsted recognised “positive progress” in its latest monitoring visit.
At a Cabinet meeting last week (10 September), councillors reviewed the findings from Ofsted inspectors who visited the department in June. The report highlighted improvements in the care and support given to children in care, as well as praising the strength of political and corporate backing for the service.
Children’s Services in Swindon was rated “inadequate” two years ago, sparking a comprehensive transformation plan overseen by an independently-chaired improvement board. Since then, Ofsted has carried out four monitoring visits, each recognising progress. A full reinspection is scheduled for next summer.
Councillor Paul Dixon, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said the council remained “laser-focused” on turning the department around.
“When we took control of the Council two years ago, we knew there were real problems, so one of the first things we did was invite Ofsted in,” he explained.
“Transforming a failing Children’s Services department is a bit like turning an oil tanker – it takes time. But our dedicated and committed colleagues are working tirelessly to get us in a position where we can improve our rating when Ofsted return next year.”
The council also agreed plans to invest £700,000 in buying and developing a property in Swindon to house children who might otherwise be placed outside the borough. Currently, 42 per cent of the 310 children in care are living more than 20 miles away, often separated from family, friends and schools.
Cllr Dixon said improving local placements was a key priority, both for children’s wellbeing and for easing financial pressures on the council.
“It is incredibly important we get this right, not just for the children and families who rely on us, but also so we can get to grips with the huge financial challenge children’s social care places on the council’s budget,” he added.
Ofsted will carry out two further monitoring visits before next summer’s full inspection, which will determine whether the council’s efforts to transform Children’s Services have paid off.
