'Inadequate councils need more time to improve', says LGA

The Local Government Association (LGA) said that receiving an "inadequate" Ofsted rating for children's services often compounds existing performance problems that can take time to turn around.

On Monday, the Prime Minister unveiled plans for a tougher approach to standards in children's services, with inadequate departments having just six months to turn themselves around or face having an independent commissioner appointed and the possibility of services being hived off to be delivered by other councils and charities. 

The new timescales are part of a wider programme of measures aimed at improving services for vulnerable children, outlined in an article for CYP Now by children's minister Edward Timpson.

Responding to the announcements, Roy Perry, chairman of the LGA's children and young people board, said: “Across the country, social workers are striving to improve the lives of vulnerable children and work closely together to maximise expertise and knowledge. Where change is needed, learning from within the sector from the best councils is paramount. If extra external assistance is required, it must only be for a period of time to help bring a council back on its feet.
 
“It is right that the best performing councils are able to support those struggling. However, it is important that capacity and resources are fully provided as transforming a hugely complex child protection system takes time and additional funding. Evidence suggests that transforming services often takes longer than six months and a flexible approach is required.
 
“A recent study from independent researchers Impower highlighted the impact an inadequate Ofsted inspection can have on a council, which can often see areas stuck in a vicious circle of staffing shortages combined with rapidly increasing demand.

“Councils, government and Ofsted must work together to ensure the inspection system helps drive improvement, rather than simply exacerbating existing problems.”

The LGA's concerns were backed by the Association of Directors of Children's Services (ADCS).

ADCS president Alison O'Sullivan, said: “While we must never condone poor practice, the six-month timescale for improvement is unrealistic.

"Real, effective change cannot occur within six or in some cases even 12 months.

"While it is essential to take steps to act quickly where failure is identified, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to remedying complex problems. Instead, it is important to remember that structural change is expensive and takes time and energy to implement, so should only be pursued when necessary.”

The association has already warned that the reforms will only be successful if more funding is given to councils to tackle the rising demand for children's social care services.