Praise for social workers in latest Ofsted review

Article date: July 12th 2024

Inspectors held a focused visit which looked at the support given to children in need and those who have protection plans.

As part of the feedback from inspectors they said: "Children subject to child in need or child protection planning in St Helens receive a consistent and effective service. Children are seen regularly by skilled and committed social workers who know the importance of showing patience, kindness and understanding in engaging and building relationships with those with whom they work.

"Social workers know their children and families well and understand the complexities of social work in St Helens. They work positively with children and their families to support them so they can make positive changes in their lives. There is a strong understanding of the needs of children in St Helens, and where there are risks, these are recognised and addressed."

The inspectors also picked out areas of strong work happening, with managerial overview of cases and help for children who would be subject of legal measures both being recognised for their quality. The use of family conferences was also highlighted as a real strength for the service.

The letter also showed that across the service inspectors saw appropriate support offered both to escalate and just as importantly de-escalate cases and there was strong guidance and help from senior leaders and the wider council in bringing in and retaining social workers to provide stability for families with the social workers they are used to working with.

Councillor Nova Charlton, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, said: "While we had our Good overall rating last year from Ofsted we have not rested on continuing to improve our services as we continue on our journey to Outstanding. This latest review gives us confidence that the steps our workforce is taking in continuing to drive high quality support for those in need is paying off. It's a real credit to our hardworking team that the inspectors spoke so highly of much of the work that we're doing as a council.

"There are always areas where we know we can improve and this letter acknowledges that we have recognised these and have put processes in place that will mean families will get even better care across our borough."