Ofsted have judged Children’s Services in Blackburn with Darwen as ‘Good’ in a glowing report published today following a three week inspection in March.
They described the new leadership as ‘strong, highly visible and supportive, open, honest and respectful’ and praised its ‘injection of energy and pace’ that has brought about significant improvements in the service.
The report states: “The leadership style is, without doubt, a critical feature which engages staff and partner agencies. This is successfully driving better practice, which is improving the lives of children, care leavers and families. Senior leaders are highly credible, openly accountable and trusted by staff.”
Inspectors also described how social workers ‘take time to develop meaningful rapport and trust’ and are capturing a “beautiful catalogue of events’ to help children understand early memories safely and support them into the future.
Strong partnerships are highlighted for praise after inspectors witnessed a ‘palpable pride and collaborative culture’. It states: “Strong agency partnerships are enabling children, care leavers and their families to be well supported and make progress and there is a relentless focus on children and care leavers’ lived experiences.”
The report went on to highlight that children in care receive good quality care, through ‘stable homes that meet their needs’ and the response to children when there are risks linked to exploitation is robust.
The innovative network of Family Hubs and Children’s Centres are praised for their early help. And while there has been a significant increase in contact and referrals, systems ensure that they are responded to swiftly and with experience.
Councillor Julie Gunn, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:
“We have a can-do spirit and so much pride here. It is hugely gratifying that this latest inspection recognises the real determination, time and energy that I see day in, day out to make sure our children and families get the best possible support and help.
“And to read that our care leavers ‘feel the love’ from their personal advisors means everything and makes me incredibly proud.”
Following last month’s inspection, just one category – the experiences and progress of care leavers – was graded as ‘requires improvement to be good’. However, the inspectors recognised the significant improvement provided to care leavers in the borough since the last inspection.
Jo Siddle, Strategic Director of Children’s Services, said:
“What drives us in Children’s Services is continually wanting to do better for our children and young people and to keep them safe.
“We went into the inspection proud of the work we do and aware of areas where there is still work to be done.
“There was a lot of emotion when we heard directly about the impact we are having and the confidence in our ability to do more. We are taking all the recommendations on board and will implement at pace.”
The ‘significant investment and innovation’ that has strengthened the borough’s Children’s Services was recognised and praised.
Denise Park, the Council’s Chief Executive, added:
“Our job is to build happier, healthier and safer communities, where young families can thrive and where there are good services.
“What’s made the difference is having such a dedicated and compassionate workforce in Children’s Services and the collaboration from the wider Council and partner agencies who want what is best for children and young people in the borough, like they would their own children.”