High caseloads hampering Dudley Council children’s services
High caseloads are impacting on Dudley Council’s ability to consistently deliver effective children’s services, according to government inspectors.
During a visit in October, inspectors from Ofsted found Dudley’s social workers know their clients well and carry out sensitive work with children and families, especially when young people are at risk of harm.
The inspection also found that, while most children receive timely help and support, the quality of assessments by staff can vary.
Inspector Nick Bennison said: “Children who need help and support experience assessment work that does not fully identify their needs and areas for support.
“This can lead to drift and delay for these children having their needs met. The supervision of social workers is too irregular and lacks reflection.
“This, alongside high caseloads for some social workers, impacts on the ability of the local authority to deliver consistently effective services to vulnerable children in this area.”
The inspection focussed on the council’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) and Early Help services.
Councillor Wayne Little, Dudley Council cabinet member for children and young people, said: “The incredible dedication and hard work of our officers has been recognised in this report, and I must thank our teams for all they continue to do for families in Dudley borough.
“Although we are delighted at this outcome, we recognise that there is still more to do, and we will continue to work tirelessly to provide the best possible services for children, young people and families.”
The report acknowledges the council is hiring more staff and says case loads are reducing but ‘remain high’.
Inspectors highlighted a problem with quality assurance, the way the service assesses strengths and weaknesses.
Mr Bennison said: “It does, however, focus on process rather than on the impact of the social work intervention on children’s lives, and does not involve children, parents or social workers.
“This is a missed opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the quality of service being delivered to children.”
Despite his concerns the inspector concluded: “The workforce in Dudley is positive about working in Dudley, and the support they receive from their colleagues, managers and senior leaders. “
