Cabinet note the improvement made in Children’s Services and the positive report completed by the DFE appointed commissioner and note the formal lifting of the statutory direction placed on Children’s Services.

This agenda item was covered first in the meeting.

Councillor Powell cabinet member for children and young people introduced the report.

The Cabinet Member highlighted key findings from the Children's Commissioner's June 2026 report, noting that the council's improvement plan had been embraced by leaders at all levels and owned by frontline staff. The report recognised the strong engagement of the Chief Executive, Leader and Lead Cabinet Member, and confirmed that children's services remain a high priority for the council.

The Commissioner also noted the council's proactive engagement with national children's social care reforms, including the Families First Partnership programme, with strong partner involvement across the system. Children's voices were reported to be increasingly influencing service design, practice development and strategic priorities through meaningful engagement.

Confidence was expressed in the ongoing leadership and partnership working supporting a well-managed transition, ensuring continued service improvement and avoiding disruption to delivery. Cabinet was assured that, despite significant progress, work would continue to implement national reforms, including Families First and SEND reforms.

The Cabinet Member expressed thanks to the Director of Children’s Services, their team and frontline staff, as well as to children and families whose contributions had supported the service’s improvement journey and achievements.

Cabinet noted the significant improvements made in Children’s Services, as reported by the Children’s Commissioner and evidenced through Ofsted inspection outcomes, and noted the formal lifting of the statutory direction previously placed on the service.

Comments from cabinet members:

Members congratulated Councillor Powell and the Children’s Services team on the significant progress achieved in improving the service. It was noted that the council had faced considerable challenges, but that strong leadership and sustained commitment had delivered meaningful improvements over a lengthy and demanding improvement journey. Particular thanks were expressed to Councillor Powell for his leadership throughout the process.

Members praised the leadership shown in driving the improvement of Children’s Services, noting the significant progress made from a highly challenging position. It was acknowledged that the transformation had been achieved through strong corporate leadership, a focus on addressing issues directly, and sustained effort over time. Thanks were expressed to those involved for their commitment and achievements in delivering the improvements.

Members reflected on the length and challenge of the improvement journey, noting the determination shown in maintaining momentum and driving continuous improvement. Confidence was expressed in the service’s future direction, with particular recognition that improvement work continued beyond meeting statutory requirements, demonstrating a commitment to exceeding expected standards.

Reference was made to the Children’s Commissioner’s observation of a culture of methodical and systematic improvement, representing a significant shift from the crisis-driven approach of the past. Members praised the calm and consistent leadership that had underpinned the transformation and acknowledged the significance of the achievement while recognising that the focus would remain on further improvement and delivering the best outcomes for children and families.

Councillor Fagan, Chair of the Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee, welcomed the revocation of the statutory direction and described it as a significant achievement following a  ...  view the full minutes text for item 111