Positive inspection report for borough’s children’s services

Children’s social care services in Caerphilly have received positive feedback following a recent inspection by the national regulator.

Care Inspectorate Wales carried out an “assurance check” of the council department at the end of last year, finding “a strong commitment to delivering person-centred, strengths-based support for children, young people, and families”.

The inspectors said the department treats people “with dignity and respect” and embodies a “culture of continuous improvement”.

Safeguarding is “well understood” and partnership working is “a notable strength”, they added.

Cllr Elaine Forehead, the county borough council’s cabinet member for social care, said she was “particularly proud that the findings provide strong independent assurance about the quality of services being delivered”.

Speaking to the council’s education and social services committee, she said the inspectors had “recognised the commitment of our workforce, the strength of our leadership, and the positive, person-centred approach that underpins practice across the service”.

Cllr Forehead noted the report included “a small number of areas for further development”.

They included making sure every child’s voice is heard, enhancing training for staff, and ensuring all families benefit equally from early interventions.

The cabinet member said “none of the issues raised came as a surprise”, and the recommendations have been incorporated into a new action plan for improvements.

Cllr Forehead added her thanks “to our dedicated staff and partners, whose hard work and professionalism is clearly reflected in the inspection outcome”.