Slough Council children’s service failures ‘widespread and serious’

Slough Borough Council has been told there are ‘widespread and serious’ failures in its looked-after children services.

Ofsted has ranked the authority inadequate, saying its social care services have not made sufficient progress since the previous Ofsted inspection in May 2011, when it was put in special measures.

It said procedures and the practice of professionals working with children have not ensured the voice of the child is heard sufficiently.

The report added the widespread and serious weaknesses in child protection mean children do not always receive the protection they need when they require it.

The council said while it does not dispute the findings, which it says it was aware of, it disputes the ‘tone’ used. It said plans are in place to bring around change.

Inspectors visited the council in November and December last year.