WIREDGOV

Responding to the report by Ofsted on protecting disabled children, Councillor David Simmonds, Chairman of the Local Government Association's Children and Young People Board, said:

"The report highlights some of the excellent work taking place to support disabled children and their families early on. It is also encouraging that the study found that when child protection concerns did arise they were investigated promptly and steps were taken to ensure the child was safe.

"Of course, no child should remain in an unsafe environment. However, in cases where the situation is not clear cut social workers face incredibly tough decisions. Clearly there is more work to be done to make sure there is common understanding and effective communication between local partners so that all children are kept safe from harm.

"Councils are committed to continually improving services for the most vulnerable children and the LGA and its partners are currently developing an £8 million programme that will encourage children's services professionals to better share information on what works."

Note's to editor's

Author: LGA Media Office
Contact: Alison Purdy, LGA Media Office, Telephone: 020 7664 3333