Local authority praised for aid given to vulnerable children

A report has praised a west London council as “excellent”, “innovative” and “effective” at protecting children vulnerable to risk and harm both in and outside the home. 

Ofsted’s appraisal of children’s services at Kensington and Chelsea also commended staff for being “passionate” about children’s safety and excellent at providing new arrivals from Ukraine and Afghanistan with accommodation, education and mental health support. 

Ofsted inspectors spoke to a number of children and parents during the visit last month and saw how child services draw up plans to help troubled youngsters attend school full-time and address the root causes of their issues.  

Those who have history as youth offenders are engaged with extra-curricular activities to direct them down a path which channels their energy into creative industries. 

The report states: “Children who are vulnerable to extra-familial risk receive excellent support from social workers and partner agencies.  

“Carefully crafted safety plans address issues that make children vulnerable. Leaders work tirelessly with a broad range of partners and commissioned services to promote awareness and understanding of extrafamilial risks.  

“As a result, professionals can swiftly identify vulnerable children and ensure that they and their families receive early and effective support to mitigate risks.  

“Workers are passionate about improving children’s safety and creating opportunities for them. Leaders and practitioners continually drive innovation and continuously seek to improve the impact of the support they provide.” 

On refugees, the report concludes: “The wider needs and issues of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children are well considered, and good attempts are made to address all their needs, including accommodation, education, physical and mental health, culture and friendship.  

“They receive sensitive and appropriate support despite the fact that many of their placements are out of area, making it more difficult for them to fully access and engage with the authority’s services and community support.” 

Pictured top: Kensington Town Hall (Picture: Hannah Neary)