Children's services in county rated outstanding

Children's services in Shropshire were rated outstanding, following an inspection over three weeks

Children's services in Shropshire have been rated outstanding by the education watchdog.

Ofsted's inspection was held over three weeks, which included detailed case work analysis, data review and interviews with partners, children and families.

The latest report follows critical findings in 2024, when inspectors noted "serious and widespread" failings were leaving Shropshire children in need of protection at risk of "significant harm".

Commenting on the recent report, lead inspector Jenny-Ellen Scotland said senior leaders were "ambitious, family focused and firmly child-centred".

She added: "All areas of service are characterised by many areas of excellence, compassion, and a resolute focus on outcomes.

"Listening to children, understanding their lived experiences and acting on their views are strongly embedded in practice."

Three out of four areas judged - the experiences and progress of children who needed help and protection, the experiences and progress of children in care and the impact of leaders on social work practice with children and families - were rated outstanding.

The experiences and progress of care leavers was rated as good.

Shropshire Council cabinet member for social care Ruth Houghton said it "set out with a vision to bring love back into the system".

She added it was "great to see that this has been demonstrated through our practice and commitment to the children and young people of Shropshire".

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.