Richmond's children’s services rated 'Outstanding'

Achieving for Children's (AfC) children's services in Richmond have been awarded Ofsted’s highest rating of 'Outstanding' in its latest inspection.

This milestone sees the grading rise from 'Good' in 2022, and places Richmond among the best-performing children’s services. Inspectors noted that every recommendation from the last inspection has been acted upon, with further improvements delivered.

The service was praised for exceptional care, protection and support for children, young people and families. Inspectors highlighted a workforce that “puts children and young people at the centre of everything they do,” describing Richmond’s services as ambitious, caring and highly effective.

Key strengths identified by Ofsted include:

• Outstanding support for children in care, ensuring stability, emotional wellbeing and educational achievement.
• Inspirational help for care leavers, enabling young people to succeed in independence while staying connected to trusted adults.
• Strong corporate parenting, with young people actively shaping the services they use.
• A skilled and stable workforce, supported by excellent training, manageable caseloads and visible leadership.
• Tailored support, with services designed to meet the individual needs and identity of each child.

Executive Director of Children’s Services for Richmond and Kingston, Ian Dodds, said:

“I am incredibly proud that Richmond’s children’s services have been judged Outstanding. This reflects the hard work and compassion of our colleagues – social workers, practitioners, carers and partners – who go above and beyond every day to support children and families."

“It’s also a tribute to the children and young people themselves, whose views and experiences shape the way we work. While this result is fantastic, we are not standing still – we remain focused on ensuring every child in Richmond grows up safe, supported and able to reach their full potential.”

When asked to comment, councillors from the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames also praised the highly effective services delivered for children and young people. 

Councillor Julia Cambridge, Lead Member of Richmond Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee, and Chair of the Corporate Parenting Panel said: 

“This rating is a huge achievement and one our whole borough can be proud of. It shows the difference our brilliant teams are making for children and families, from early years right through to adulthood. As Lead Member of the committee, I see first-hand the passion, dedication and resilience of our staff and partners – this Ofsted result is richly deserved.”

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, added:

“To be recognised as Outstanding is testament to the unwavering commitment of everyone involved in delivering children’s services in Richmond upon Thames. Our priority as a Council is to give every child the best possible start in life, and this judgement shows the real impact of that ambition.”

You can read the full Ofsted inspection report for Richmond's children's services on the Ofsted website.

This judgement reflects AfC's commitment to ensuring children and young people across the borough have a fairer start in life, and providing the support and services they and their families need to live happy, healthy and successful lives.