On Thursday 26 May, Torbay Council received notification that the revised Statutory Direction issued by the government in May 2021 is to be lifted.   

After receiving an ‘Inadequate’ rating following the last two Ofsted inspections, the Department for Education issued a revised Statutory Direction which required Torbay Council to continue taking steps to improve its children’s social care services.  

The news was confirmed by Will Quince MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Children and Families, Department for Education, who descried the improvement as “an impressive achievement over what has been a very challenging period.”  

The lifting of the revised Statutory Direction is based on the landmark improvements shown in the latest Ofsted’s inspection report of Torbay Children’s Services.  

The report showed significant improvements had been made since the last inspection in 2018 and is now rated ‘Good’ across the board. Inspectors acknowledged the improvement as a “remarkable transformation”.  

Ofsted inspectors highlighted a highly effective approach to recruitment and retention, strong strategic partnerships, the creation of a clear and ambitious improvement plan, and a strong political and corporate commitment to Torbay’s improvement agenda.  

Cllr Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Torbay Council, said “The news that the revised Statutory Direction has now been lifted is a significant symbol of our transformative journey.   

“However, we will not rest on our laurels. This recognition from the government shows that we now have the foundations needed to continue to make the improvements required as we continue to work hard to build on our vision for a Child Friendly Torbay, where all children can thrive.”  

Cllr Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader, Torbay Council, said “This a fantastic achievement for the whole council and we are thrilled to hear the government comment that this is “an impressive achievement.”

“It is important that we continue to operate with this whole council approach, keeping the needs of vulnerable children at the forefront of our priorities.”