Ofsted will assess Liverpool Council again after a previous review found serious issues with children services.
The 2023 inspection harshly criticized child support. A new visit happened in December last year. City council members will review the findings, and they meet next Thursday about the report. The earlier review hurt Liverpool Council badly.
The local authority’s social care had issues. The assessment found “serious weaknesses” in its performance. Young people risked harm, but the council corrected this. An Ofsted inspector, Kathryn Grindrod, sent a letter.
Councilor Liz Parsons stated, “Liverpool is heading right”. Grindrod’s report noted a renewed focus. This benefits young people with care experience. Improvements occurred in the service they receive, and the council raised their profile significantly.
A stable leadership team knows its strengths and what needs further development. Ofsted noted improvement but said more work is needed. Planning for children leaving care needs improvement. Pathway plans don’t reflect complete planning.
Young people should know how to access records. Many young people live in suitable housing, and they feel safe and settled in these places. They learn how to manage their own housing, too.
Getting housing for some remains hard. This concerns young people with complex needs. A higher number live in temporary housing. Inspector Grindrod reported the unsuitable situation duration. Staff work hard to find better, prompt housing.
Grindrod also said the workforce is passionate. Staff are committed to their young people. They care deeply and want them to succeed.