Richmond has joined the ranks of the country's top-performing councils for children's services after Ofsted awarded the borough its highest rating of Outstanding.

The inspection, published this week, marks a step up from Richmond's Good rating in 2022 and confirms the borough as one of the best places in the country for children and families to receive support.

Inspectors found that every recommendation from the last inspection has been acted upon, with "further improvements" delivered.

Children's services in Richmond are run by Achieving for Children (AfC) on behalf of the Council.

The Ofsted report praised the service for exceptional care, protection and support, with inspectors noting a workforce that "puts children and young people at the centre of everything they do."

Ofsted highlighted key strengths, including:

• Outstanding support for children in care, ensuring stability, wellbeing and academic success
• Inspirational help for care leavers, giving them independence while keeping trusted adults close
• Strong corporate parenting, with young people shaping the services they use
• A skilled and stable workforce, supported by excellent training, manageable caseloads and visible leadership
• Tailored support to meet the individual needs and identity of each child

Councillor Julia Cambridge, Chair of Richmond's Education and Children's Services Committee, 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."

Council Leader Cllr Gareth Roberts 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."

Ian Dodds, Executive Director of Children's Services, said the result was both humbling and motivating: "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.

"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."

To read the full report from Ofsted click here.

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