SOCIAL workers are helping to protect Oxfordshire children from the 'stubborn' problem of neglect.

Ofsted has inspected Oxfordshire County Council's children's services, and offered largely positive feedback.

The regulator did not provide a rating, as it does when it visits schools, but concluded that 'the majority of children in need receive an effective service'.

Its report was published on Friday, following inspection earlier in February.

Inspectors wrote: "Providing children with good services is a high priority for senior leaders and elected members.

"They are not complacent about the continuing stubborn challenge of addressing the cumulative impact of neglect for children."

In line with national trends, Oxfordshire saw an 80 per cent rise in numbers of children coming into care between 2011 to 2019.

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There are now 780 children in care compared to 425 in 2011.

Despite rising pressure on social services, Ofsted said: "In the large majority of cases, inspectors saw persistent and skilled work, sometimes involving complex cases and often with large family groups.

"Powerful methodology...helps social workers and supervisors to better understand the child’s lived experience."

The council will introduce a new model of social work in July, focusing on a whole-family approach and integrating support for mental health, drugs, alcohol and domestic abuse services.

Several areas were highlighted for improvements, including the attendance of partners in child protection conferences, and more child participation.

The report stated: "A small minority of children are living for too long in circumstances where they continue to experience neglect and emotional harm.

"Management oversight and planning require strengthening so that drift and delay are prevented and that all children’s lives improve quickly."

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Ofsted said since the last inspection, the council had improved the quality of planning for unborn children.

The inspector described services for disabled children as 'good-quality'.

Councillor Steve Harrod, the county council's cabinet member for children and family services, said: "We strive for excellence in our education and support of children and young people.

"I am encouraged that Ofsted recognises this commitment and the innovations we are putting in place, such as the whole-family approach.

"We are already looking at innovative ways to involve parents, carers and children, working together to make sure that young people get the support they want and need to succeed."

He said the council hopes to recruit about 30 new social workers, adding: "This is part of our determination to improve the support and opportunities we provide for all young people and make sure they have the best start in life."

Qualified social workers can enquire about positions by contacting workforus@oxfordshire.gov.uk.