Ofsted reported that services for children in Ealing has "strengthened since the last inspection" which was carried out in 2019, when they were given 'Requires improvement.' 

Tom Anthony led the inspection between April and May, examining the effectiveness of the local authority in providing support for disabled and asylum-seeking children, as well as those in social care, adoption and foster care. 

Ofsted praised the shared determination amongst corporate leaders to "continually improve the quality of service provided to children and their families." 

Developments have been made within Ealing Children's Services over the last few years to construct a more permanent workforce, which has in turn improved the experiences of children who are either in care, or in need of protection. 

Inspectors reported that Ealing services has in place "an effective programme of recruitment and retention" which has allowed it to field a team of mostly permanent social workers, clinical psychologists and family support workers who are having "a tangible impact on children's lives." 

It also offers a "broad range" of training and development to support its workers in "developing their skills and knowledge." 

Furthermore, inspectors were impressed by the fact that social workers endeavour to establish "effective and supportive" relationships with children in order to "mitigate any risks of harm." Not only do the children benefit from the regular visits they receive from their social workers, but also from the conscious effort made by social workers to represent the views of the children at child protection conferences. 

The support offered to children of varying backgrounds was another notable success during Ofsted's inspection at Ealing Children's Services. Inspectors found that disabled children receive "highly tailored and carefully considered support from practitioners who know them and their families well." 

Care for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children was commended as a "significant strength," with inspectors commenting on the warm welcome that children received and the attentive nature of the staff who "quickly provide the services that they need to help them feel safe and supported." 

The local authority also works hard to successfully identify children who are missing education and to support young people's attendance at school to ensure that absence levels do not rise. 

To read the full report from Ofsted, click here

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