Ofsted has investigated the experiences of care leavers in Reading - young people aged 18-25 who spent time in the care system.
Two inspectors visited Reading Borough Council's children's services to review support for those with particular needs, such as unaccompanied asylum seekers, young parents and those who have had contact with the criminal justice system. The visit was on March 25-26 and the report was published on Monday, May 18. His Majesty's Inspectors for this visit were Amanda Maxwell and Steve Bailey.
The report states: "The majority of Reading's care leavers receive effective support; however, not all services are consistently strong.
"There is more to do to ensure the consistent effectiveness of support for particular groups of care leavers, including those with more complex needs."
Inspectors praised personal advisers for practical and emotional support and highlighted early help: " Timely referrals to charities and the
persistent ‘checking in’ on care leavers ensures they can access and take up
midwifery, early help and other forms of community-based support in early
parenthood."
But weaknesses were flagged: case-loads are higher than leaders want; support for care leavers in custody isn't consistent; and the number not in education, employment or training has risen. While local drop-in services and groups help those in or near Reading, people living further away can miss out. For some vulnerable and isolated young people, contact isn't sufficient.
A council spokesperson said: "We are pleased to see that the latest report from Ofsted acknowledges our continued focus on practice improvement and recognises our strengths, particularly the strong and trusting relationships established between our care leavers and their personal advisers.
"The report recognises the positive progress we have made, and we remain committed to continuing to drive improvement to secure consistently good practice and improved outcomes for all children and young people, including our care leavers."
Care leavers were given a Reading council tax discount until they reach age 25 in October 2023.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
