Contact usRelease date: 11 May 2023Ofsted Inspectors have praised West Sussex County Council for its ‘relentless approach to improving practice’ in Children’s Services. Most children coming into care make good progressThe voice of children and young people is strong and well-considered in decision-makingEarly Help support is making a positive difference to children’s livesStaff benefit from a wide range of support, and training and development opportunities; and feel valuedThe implementation of the new Family Safeguarding practice model has been carefully considered with clear plans for the next stepsPartnership working is improving, although there is more to doLeaders have been determined to shift the organisational culture and put children firstPractice in some teams is variable and more work is needed to ensure all children receive a consistent serviceThe advice and support provided to care leavers aged 21 and over requires improvementPlacement choice for children who are looked after requires improvementThere needs to be a stronger response to specific children aged 16 and 17 who present as homeless or who are missing from homeJacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for children and young people, said: “I am delighted that Ofsted has recognised the huge progress we have made over the past four years. I am pleased Ofsted can see the positive changes both corporately and politically which is acknowledged in their report