Last month’s visit looked at how the council supports children who need help or protection.

Inspectors found that leaders have maintained a strong focus on child safety and wellbeing, even as demand for services has increased.

Inspectors highlighted several strengths in Blackpool’s approach. Assessments of children’s needs are now more timely and thorough, with swift action taken when risks are identified.

Staff build strong relationships with families and offer tailored support, including help with parenting, routines, budgeting, and improving home conditions.

Social workers feel well supported and safe to practice, and morale across the workforce is high.

The council’s practice model, ‘Blackpool Families Rock’, is well embedded and understood, helping guide a strength-based and collaborative approach to safeguarding.

Cllr Jim Hobson, Blackpool Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:

Children’s Services in Blackpool have made significant progress in recent year. Earlier this year, a Joint Targeted Area Inspection (JTAI) praised Blackpool’s multi-agency safeguarding work, leadership, and specialist teams such as Awaken.

This latest Ofsted visit builds on that trajectory, recognising continued improvement and a strong commitment to children’s welfare.

The full report can be read on Ofsted’s website.