Inspectors Hail ‘Progress’ In Midlothian Children’s Services

AN inspection of children’s services in Midlothian has revealed “very good progress” following a damning report two years ago.

HMIE has published a follow-through inspection report of children’s services in the Midlothian area.

Of the seven points evaluated, five were considered very good, one good and one satisfactory.

Councillor Derek Milligan, leader of Midlothian Council since 2007, said: “The council’s social work division came in for particular criticism in the 2007 report.

“With the publication of this positive report and the recent SWIA full inspection of our social work services, which showed good progress being made, I believe that we are now on the right track.

“Since the initial report, we have invested an additional £1.5 million in services for children and families, with a further £288,000 allocated for 2009/10.”

The 2007 child protection report on Midlothian was described by the then minister Hugh Henry MSP as “shocking and worrying”, with most grades either weak or unsatisfactory. It resulted in the resignations of the councillor responsible for social work and the director of social work.