Luton Children’s Services selected to support improvement across the country

The DfE has selected Luton Council to join the programme, recognising the skills, understanding and capability within Luton to provide effective improvement support to other councils.

The announcement marks another significant milestone in one of the most substantial improvement journeys undertaken by Luton Council over the past six years. In 2020, Luton’s Children’s Services was judged ‘Inadequate’ by Ofsted. Following sustained improvement, the service was rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted earlier this year, with inspectors recognising the significant progress made and the care, love and commitment shown by staff to children and young people.

The transformation has also seen Luton take an increasingly prominent role in national reform and improvement programmes, including the Families First for Children Pathfinder, SEND reform and fostering reform. Luton’s Youth Partnership Service was also rated ‘Good’ following a recent national Youth Justice inspection.

Councillor Umme Ali, Deputy Leader of Luton Council and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “This is a hugely proud moment for Luton and an important recognition of just how far our Children’s Services has come.

“Six years ago, we were a service that needed significant improvement and support. Today, we are being asked by Government to use the expertise we have developed to help other councils improve their services for children and families. That is a remarkable transformation.

“This achievement belongs to the many people who have contributed to that journey – our dedicated staff and partners, children, young people and families, and councillors from across the political spectrum who have provided leadership, challenge and support throughout the improvement process.

“It is also testament to the love, care and compassion our staff show every day in supporting some of our most vulnerable children and young people to thrive, feel safe and reach their full potential.

“Most importantly, this is about better outcomes for children and families in Luton. The work does not stop here. We will continue to challenge ourselves to improve while sharing what we have learned with others and playing our part in strengthening children’s services nationally.”

The DfE has today announced Luton’s participation in the programme, with the first partnerships between improvement teams and recipient local authorities expected to begin in October.

The move represents a significant shift in Luton’s role within children’s social care – from a council receiving improvement support to one now being trusted to provide expertise and support to others.

The council will continue to work closely with children, young people, families, partners and elected members to build on the progress already made and ensure that children in Luton receive the best possible support to thrive.