Brent Council's Children's Services has been rated 'Good' by Ofsted following an inspection in April, with the education watchdog highlighting 'responsive, compassionate social work' and strong relationships between social workers and families.
Ofsted findings
The report, published on June 17, praised the local authority for its 'continuous improvement' and 'targeted early help' to prevent issues from escalating. Inspectors noted that children and their families are making positive progress, with leadership providing a 'strong and stable foundation'. Key strengths included quick responses to safeguarding concerns, effective partnership working, and 'tenacious, relationship-based help' for children at risk of exploitation.
Many children in care benefit from stable foster placements and regular visits from social workers, while care leavers value the practical and emotional support from their personal advisers, according to the report.
Areas for improvement
Ofsted identified areas for improvement, including strengthening children's understanding of their own life stories and management oversight of children who may require Family Court intervention. The leadership team welcomed the findings and will develop an action plan in response.
Council response
Cllr Jake Rubin, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Employment and Climate Action, described the 'Good' rating across all four judgments—leadership, help and protection, children in care, and care leavers—as 'a significant achievement' reflecting years of hard work. He said: 'This Good rating is a significant achievement and reflects the dedication of our social workers, foster carers, partners and staff, who work every day to support children, young people and families across Brent. We are proud of the progress recognised by Ofsted, but we know there is more to do. I know our dedicated staff and partners are ambitious to constantly improve the support they provide.'
The last inspection in 2023 also rated the service as 'Good'.
