Ofsted finds failings in a fifth of youth services

15 Feb 07
A fifth of councils are not providing adequate youth services, the education watchdog said this week.

16 February 2007

A fifth of councils are not providing adequate youth services, the education watchdog said this week.

Ofsted inspectors said a 'significant minority' of local authorities did not ensure that their youth services were properly integrated into the new children's services delivery structure.

Of the 33 youth services inspected in 2005/06, 15 were judged to be good or better, 11 adequate and 7 inadequate. One authority — Doncaster — was judged to have an outstanding service.

Ofsted divisional manager Flo Hadley said: 'The best services recognise that youth workers are essential to engage young people, including those with more challenging attitudes and behaviour.'

Inspectors found a close link between resources and service quality.

Ofsted urged councils to ensure youth services are not left out of key strategic developments by ensuring elected members and senior officials understand the importance of youth work.

Youth service officers should also be encouraged to become involved with the council at a strategic level.

PFfeb2007

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