Essex private fostering service rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted

Essex County Council has announced its private fostering service has been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsed.

The service was inspected between January 8-10 when inspectors judged all aspects of the service to be good and ranked the overall effectiveness as good.

The inspectors found that “the quality of the service provided to children, private foster carers and parents is very effective in practice”. They said that the council has a clear commitment to ensuring the children are safe and cared for and the team provides effective advice, support and monitoring of the placements and ensures the wishes and feelings of children are known and understood.

Essex county councillor Ray Gooding, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “This is fantastic news for the council and another positive step on our journey. Essex social work is doing some great work and delivering a positive, safe and supportive service to children and their families; it is a great time to be involved with Essex social care. Congratulations to all involved.”