Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: June 24, 2025

Purpose: An update on the outcome of the recent inspection of Local Authority Children’s Services in March 2025, Official Ofsted Report, a letter of judgement, findings and recommendations, published on 9 May 2025. Supported by Dorset’s Post Inspection Action Plan.

Content: (a)  That the report be noted and that the positive judgements awarded to the Service by Ofsted, be celebrated. (b)  That the post inspection action plan be supported and (c)  That the test of assurance document, as set out in appendix 3 of the report, be received. Reason for the decision Dorset Council had a legal statutory duty to deliver effective safeguarding services and improve outcomes for children in care and care experienced young people. The impact of an effective Children’s Services contributed to delivering improving communities for all, a priority in the Council Plan.