Children’s services in Bracknell Forest have been rated outstanding in all areas by Ofsted, following their latest inspection.
Inspectors praised the council for not only maintaining its high standards since 2022 but strengthening them even further. All 4 areas inspected were judged outstanding, placing Bracknell Forest among the very best in the country for supporting children, young people and families.
The Ofsted report highlights the council’s “unwavering dedication” to children’s services. Inspectors found that staff and partner organisations work closely together, stepping in early, responding quickly when needs increase, and making sure children get the right support at the right time.
Leaders across the council were recognised for prioritising investment in children and families, especially when demand rose. Inspectors also described a culture where the voices of children and young people genuinely shape the way services are run.
Ofsted praised Bracknell Forest’s wide range of early help services, saying they give families the tools they need to stay strong and resilient. The report notes that:
- children build trusting relationships with practitioners who step in early to avoid problems getting worse
- young carers are quickly offered social activities and therapeutic support, giving them valuable time for themselves
- professionals from across services work together to assess needs and offer tailored help as early as possible
Inspectors were also impressed by the council’s work with disabled children, saying social workers take time to understand each child’s individual needs and lived experiences.
Children in care and care leavers were found to receive “outstanding help and support”. Inspectors said that:
- decisions for children to enter care are made at the right time and for the right reasons
- high‑quality assessments make sure children move into homes that are nurturing, stable and help them thrive
- children are supported to make excellent progress at school and enjoy a wide range of opportunities
Permanence – finding long-term, stable homes for children – was described as timely and expertly overseen by knowledgeable managers.
Grainne Siggins, executive director: people, said:
“We are incredibly proud that Bracknell Forest’s children’s services have been rated as outstanding again. This is testament to the ongoing hard work and dedication of each member of the team in providing the best possible service to help improve the lives of children, young people and families in the borough.
“The council will continue to give children the best possible start in life and support them into adulthood.”
Cllr Roy Bailey, cabinet member for children and young people, said:
“As a council, we are all responsible for the care of children and young people in the borough. Our teams work tirelessly to make sure our youngest residents, and their families, receive the care and support they need to thrive. I would like to congratulate each member of the team for their commitment to the futures of our young people and the well-deserved recognition received in this report.”
To view the report in full visit the Ofsted website.
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