Hillingdon Council has been appointed as one of the first six local authorities in the country to become a Children's Improvement Team provider, a significant recognition of the quality of its children's services.

The announcement was made during a Council meeting on Thursday, September 24, 2026, where Councillor Susan O'Brien, Cabinet Member for Adults, Children, Health & Care, explained the significance of the appointment.

Councillor O'Brien stated that this role is part of the government's sector-led improvement approach, which brings together high-performing councils to support those that need additional help to improve their services. Hillingdon will work with a partner local authority, offering practical support, challenge, and expertise to help drive sustainable improvement in areas such as leadership, social work practice, safeguarding, workforce development, and the implementation of national reforms.

Hillingdon was selected through a competitive process, with the Department for Education highlighting the borough's strong track record of improvement, experienced leadership team, and ability to provide effective peer support and challenge. The DfE also recognised innovative work undertaken locally, including its family help model, the Stronger Families Hub, multi-agency safeguarding arrangements, family group decision making, trauma-informed practice, and the strong use of data and performance management.

Councillor O'Brien added that this appointment is not only a recognition of Hillingdon's current achievements but also a testament to its ability to help other councils improve their children's social care services nationally. The council will benefit from an enhanced national reputation, strengthened relationships with the DfE and other leading authorities, and valuable learning and development opportunities for its staff and leaders. Crucially, Hillingdon will of course ensure that this work is carefully managed so that supporting another authority doesn't impact on the quality of the services that we provide locally. Robust governance and oversight will be in place throughout. The learning gained from this role will be brought back into Hillingdon's own services to support continuous improvement for local residents.

Further details of the meeting can be found in the Public reports pack.