Statement on Children’s Services

“This is a deeply concerning report and, above all else, my thoughts are with the children and families in Dudley who have not received the standard of support, protection and care they should have been able to rely on. 

“Ofsted’s findings are extremely serious. Vulnerable children must always come first, and there can be no attempt to minimise the scale of the challenge facing children’s services in Dudley. 

“There now needs to be complete transparency about what has gone wrong, alongside a clear and urgent plan to put it right. I support calls for robust oversight, regular public reporting on progress and stronger partnership working so that residents can see that improvements are actually being delivered. 

“As Dudley’s MP, I will be seeking assurances from both the Council and Government about the action that will now be taken. I will work constructively with everyone involved, but I will also expect accountability and demonstrable progress. 

“Every child in Dudley deserves to be safe, supported and given the best possible start in life. Nothing less should be acceptable.”