Policy Briefing #51:

(14th February 2012)

Framework for the Inspection of local authority arrangements for the protection of children

Status: Ofsted report published January 2012

Timescales: This report sets out the Ofsted framework with immediate effect.

It also states that Ofsted, CQC, HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and HM Inspectorate of Probation have agreed in principle to develop a joint framework for multi-agency inspection of child protection services - and expect to implement this in 2013 to 2014. 

Summary:

The report outlines the framework for the inspection of local authority arrangements for the protection of children, including the effectiveness of early identification and help for children, young people, their families and carers. A key part of the inspection will be considering the degree to which agencies work together to identify problems and offer effective help early, without the need for a formal referral to social care.

All inspections will be unannounced. The local authority will be notified on day one of the inspection that the lead inspector will be arriving that day – and will be asked to prepare a list of information (listed in Annex A of the report). The full inspection will usually be carried out by five inspectors (four of whom will have a background in social care and one will have a background in education) and will be contained within a two week period.

The inspection will focus on the child's journey from need to receiving help – through case sampling and case tracking. The report sets out the detail of how this will be carried out throughout the two week period including how the views of children, parents and carers will be taken into account.  

Useful Link: The Ofsted website