Ofsted has produced a damning report into children’s social care
(Picture: PA Wire)A damning report into children’s social care has warned of serious staff shortages, with children being placed in unregistered homes or far from their families.
Young people with mental health problems are also not getting good enough support according to the Ofsted report, and the service is still struggling with the effects of the pandemic.
Ofsted chief inspector Amanda Spielman: “Too many children with increasingly complex needs, are not getting the help they need. A workforce strategy and improved support for disabled children and those with mental health needs, and their families are more urgent than ever.”
Ofsted inspectors also raised concerns about the impact of staff continuing to work from home. The report, which is based on evidence from interviews with inspectors, focus groups and official inspections, said: “Staff training continues to be mostly online, despite concerns that it is less engaging for staff and reduces retained learning.”
The problems are set to get worse as the rising cost of living is expected to lead to an increase in children needing help.
