Children in Dorset are benefitting from better help and protection but there are still improvements to be made, according to a recent report by government inspectors.

Earlier this month, Ofsted looked at Dorset Council's arrangements for children in need and those subject to a child protection plan. They examined a range of evidence including children's case records, quality assurance information and discussions with social workers.

Ofsted found that changes to senior leadership and local government reorganisation have increased the pace of improvement in children's services. Children are now experiencing stronger and more consistent relationships with their social workers and are seen wherever they feel most comfortable, either at home, at school or in the community. Regular use of advocates also helps children express their views about the care they receive.

Other positive findings included comprehensive parenting assessments and effective engagement with extended family members and multi-agency partners.

However, the inspection also found that incorrect decisions are sometimes made about when to start, continue, or cease a protection order, meaning some children are not getting the help they need quickly enough or for long enough. Furthermore, audits are reported to be overly focused on process and compliance rather than the experience of the child, leaving senior leaders in the dark over whether a positive difference is being made. 41% of children subject to a protection plan are also not visited within agreed timescales.

Despite these areas requiring improvement, the report stated that the council's "ambitious" approach was "thoughtful."

It added: "The new executive director of children's services and her senior team recognise that the quality of practice remains too variable. They have a clear understanding of what needs to improve."

Reconfiguring early help and front-door services has been prioritised to ensure children receive the right level of help and support at the right time.

In response to the report, Sarah Parker, executive director for children at Dorset Council, said: "The needs of our children and families are the focus of everything we do. For those that do need our care, we want them to be looked after in a nurturing setting while we support them to return home or find an alternative permanent home. We need to make sure every penny we have supports families in need of help and reduces the number of children coming into care. We know what we need to do to improve the lives of children and families and we're determined to do it."