‘Over recent years we have worked incredibly hard to improve and it is encouraging to see that progress recognised’
Hull City Council’s children’s services received their strongest Ofsted judgement to date(Image: PA)
Hull City Council’s children’s services have received their strongest Ofsted judgement ever, with inspectors rating the council good overall for the first time ever.
Ofsted carried out an inspection in March which has resulted in the council receiving “outstanding” ratings in two areas – the impact of leaders on social work practice with children and families, and for the experiences and progress of care leavers. It also gave “good” ratings for overall effectiveness; for the experiences and progress of children who need help and protection; and for the experiences and progress of children in care.
Highlighting a “strong, supportive workforce culture”, the report recognises the significant progress made over the past five years, with leaders praised for transforming services into ones that are “safer, stronger and more consistent” for children and families.
The published report says: “Children’s experiences of help, protection and care have steadily and sustainably improved since the last inspection. Senior leaders provide a clear strategic service vision, underpinned by credible, well-sequenced improvement plans.
“Corporate parents are knowledgeable, accountable and rigorous in their scrutiny, driving a shared commitment across the wider council to improving children’s day-to-day experiences.”
Matt Jukes, chief executive, Hull City Council, said: “This is a hugely positive report that reflects the dedication, skill and commitment of our workforce and partners in working with us to transform how we support our children, young people and their families. Over recent years, we have worked incredibly hard to improve and it is encouraging to see that progress recognised.
“We remain committed to building on this success to continue to provide high quality services that support Hull children and their families to thrive.”
Inspectors highlighted that senior leaders provide a clear strategic vision with strong partnership working, and that families have easy access to effective early help support. They also said managers maintain strong oversight of children’s safety and progress and that parental views are actively sought and meaningfully considered.
The report says: “Family network meetings are increasingly used to support families in a coordinated way. These meetings are used effectively to strengthen the relationships between professionals and family members, while reinforcing expectations around the safety and supervision of children.
“Social workers see children alone and create space for them to speak openly about their experiences. Strong, trusting relationships, built over time, enable sensitive, meaningful direct work. Children’s voices are central to planning and decision-making, helping them to understand what is happening and why.”
It also mentions how services for 16 and 17-year-olds who present as homeless have strengthened significantly since the last inspection. Joint working with agency partner ensures a prompt, child-centred response, adding how “children are helped to understand their rights and the full range of options available to them, including becoming looked after”.
Those leaving care were found to benefit from “highly skilled, persistent and deeply relational support” helping them build confidence and independence as they move into adulthood.
Pauline Turner, director of children, young people and family services, Hull City Council, added: “A core commitment in our community plan is ensuring that children and young people in Hull reach their potential and I am incredibly proud of the staff and partners in they whom have played an important part in securing this good rating”.
Councillor Linda Tock, portfolio holder for Children’s Services said: “This report is testament to the collective effort across both the council and with our partners to put children at the heart of everything we do.
“The journey from previous inspections to where we are now has required sustained focus, investment and strong leadership. We are proud of the progress made and will continue working to deliver the very best services for Hull’s children, young people and families.”
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