Havering’s Starting Well service has made “great strides” one year after launching a plan to address shortcomings following an ‘inadequate’ Ofsted rating in December 2023.
Councillor Oscar Ford, cabinet member for children and young people, said the Department for Education welcomed the plan’s “clearer focus on outcomes”.
“Our aim has and always will be about ensuring every child has the best possible start in life to meet their outcomes.
“We are investing in our workforce, listening to our communities, and removing barriers to ensure that our services meet the diversity of our children in Havering.”
The progress follows a full-service reorganisation, increased staffing, and support from a Department for Education-appointed improvement advisor.
Other help has come from safeguarding partners and two other London boroughs’ children’s services.
While both the DfE and Ofsted acknowledged positive developments, they have urged the council to accelerate the pace of change.
The next phase of the plan will focus on workforce development, Havering Council said.
Plans to strengthen management oversight, supervision, and quality assurance are included.
The authority’s spokesperson said monitoring and collaboration with national and regional partners will continue as the council works to meet the required standards.
