Children's services 'remain poor' but are more stable

A NATIONAL watchdog says Devon's children's services are still inadequate and youngsters are at risk of harm, in a blow to county officials hoping for an improved assessment.

- by BRADLEY GERRARD Local Democracy Reporter [e-mail]

Ofsted, which assesses councils' child social services departments as well as schools, said the experiences of children supported by Devon County Council "remain poor".

The service was first rated inadequate in March 2020, and Ofsted has revisited several times since.

The regulator acknowledged some "increased stability" in the service, brought about by the appointment of chief executive Donna Manson in 2023, as well as some other senior leaders, and emphasised the quality across the service had "started to improve from a very low base and widespread failures are beginning to be tackled".

Its latest assessment took place in September and October last year, with a follow-up in January.

"For too many children, serious weaknesses remain, leaving children at risk of harm," the report said.

"This is particularly the case for children experiencing neglect and domestic abuse, those at risk of extra-familial harm and care leavers living in unsuitable accommodation."