Children's service bounces back to gain 'good' rating

CHILDREN'S services operated by Redcar and Cleveland Council (RCBC) have been declared "good" overall four years on from substantial criticism that was levelled by Ofsted.

- By STUART ARNOLD

RCBC children's services celebrate their 'good' Ofsted rating

(STUART BOULTON/RCBC)

His Majesty's Inspector Rachel Fairhurst, who visited the council last month, said most children, young people and their families received effective services despite high demand and high levels of deprivation in the borough.

She said previous areas identified for improvement had mostly been addressed and praised a "stable, skilled workforce" which was delivering quality assessments and plans for children.

The newly published Ofsted outcome led to praise from Government Children's Minister Josh McAlister, who in Parliament shared his congratulations in the work done in turning the council's fortunes around.

Council leader Alec Brown said: "I want to place on record my sincere thanks to the council officers and frontline professionals who have driven this improvement. Their commitment, professionalism and determination to do the right thing for children and families has been exceptional."

In 2022, a previous full inspection by Ofsted said senior leaders had implemented "ill-conceived strategies" and were unaware of some shortcomings.