COUNCIL leaders have welcomed a report that found children in need of additional support or at risk in East Sussex have access to services that makes a positive difference to their lives.

A focussed inspection of arrangements for children in need and child protection planning also found that continued investment in services for vulnerable children and a “relentless focus” on supporting social workers and staff was helping to drive ongoing improvement in the lives of children and families.

The report praised the local authority for evaluating its work to learn and develop where needed.

Carloyn Fair, director of Children’s Services, said: “I am extremely proud of the fantastic work that is being done to support some of the most vulnerable children in our county.  Whilst this inspection does not give a rating, it is extremely positive endorsement of the work of the teams and the impact on the communities we serve.”

East Sussex County Council’s “strong” focus on providing a wide range of support to children and families was praised by inspectors who said the approach helped ensure consistent, high-quality practice which supported progress and improved lives.

The authority’s work with key partner agencies and family members was also commended in the report as an effective way of information-sharing and responding to changing needs.

Cllr Bob Bowdler, the county council’s lead member for children and families, said: “This report is testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff members who work tirelessly to protect vulnerable children in our communities.

“I was delighted to see such positive comments about their efforts and commitment to providing the very best services to children and their families.  It was also great to see recognition of the investment the county council makes and our ongoing commitment to further improve the quality and impact of our services.”

A full copy of the report can be found on Ofsted’s website.

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