Ofsted
Councils are currently addressing Ofsted inspection findings across children's services, with some implementing improvement plans for SEND and care leaver support, while others achieve high ratings.
Sutton's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services face priority action following a critical Ofsted and Care Quality Commission (CQC) review in September 2026, which identified an "Area for Priority Action" regarding dysphagia pathways. Wandsworth's children's services were rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted in September 2026, while Lambeth's Children's Services achieved a 'Good' rating in September 2026, with care leavers specifically rated 'Outstanding'. Hackney's services for care leavers were praised by Ofsted in September 2026, noting strengthened services.
Harrow Council revamped its local offer for care leavers in July 2026, informed by Ofsted findings, following an 'inadequate' judgment for care leaver support in January 2026. Bexley's SEND reforms showed progress in July 2026, but challenges persist in embedding 'Preparation for Adulthood'. Redbridge Council is implementing a comprehensive SEND improvement plan, reviewed in March 2026, in response to structural issues identified by Ofsted.
Newham Council approved plans in September 2026 to open two new children's homes for young people with complex mental health needs. Hounslow Council's Cabinet approved extending the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) Programme until October 2026, as reported in March 2026. No future meetings are scheduled in the provided material where this topic is on the agenda.
Key facts
- Sutton's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services face priority action following a critical Ofsted and CQC review in September 2026. Source
- Newham Council approved plans in September 2026 to open two new children's homes for up to eight young people with complex mental health needs. Source
- Wandsworth's children's services were rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted in all areas in September 2026. Source
- Lambeth's Children's Services were rated 'Good' by Ofsted in September 2026, with care leavers specifically rated 'Outstanding'. Source
- Harrow Council revamped its local offer for care leavers in July 2026, informed by Ofsted findings. Source 1 Source 2
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.