10/03/2026 - Luton Council’s Children’s Services rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted after remarkable transformation

In their latest inspection, Ofsted inspectors recognised not only the significant progress made since previous inspection visits, but also the compassion, care and genuine love shown by staff for the children and young people they support.

This achievement is particularly significant given the challenges the service has faced during that period. Alongside high levels of deprivation and sustained pressure on local government funding, teams have continued to drive improvement while navigating the disruption of the global COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Through strong political and strategic leadership, determined partnership working and the dedication of staff, Luton Council and its partners have delivered sustained improvement to reach this important milestone, which is ultimately improving the lives of the most vulnerable children and young people in the town.

Inspectors also recognised the success of Luton’s Families First for Children pathfinder programme, which has transformed support for families. Luton was one of 10 Local Authorities to be selected in 2024 to implement the social care reforms, which was commended by Ofsted as an effective large-scale organisational change, recognising the collaborative and thoughtful approach taken by leaders in reconfiguring the service.

New locality-based Family Help teams are providing earlier, more coordinated support, with consistent workers who build trusted relationships with families. This has led to more timely help, improved collaboration between partners and better experiences for children who need help and protection.

Inspectors found that disabled children receive appropriate support, with coordinated multi-agency work and specialist interventions helping strengthen family relationships, improve routines and reduce the risk of family breakdown.

Children in care are benefiting from improved stability, high-quality placements and long-standing relationships with their social workers. Inspectors found that children are living in homes where they thrive and where their cultural and personal needs are well understood.

 Children’s voices are also playing a stronger role in shaping services. Through the ‘All In This Together’ group and the ‘Care Leavers Council’, young people regularly meet with the lead member for children’s services, Councillor Umme Ali, and senior leaders to share their experiences and views. These groups continue to play an active role in shaping services, while the new care leavers hub provides a safe and welcoming space for young people to socialise, develop skills and access support.

The inspection also recognised the strength of Luton’s diverse leadership team and workforce, which reflects the communities they serve. Staff told inspectors they feel valued, supported and proud to work in Luton. Investment in recruitment, training and ‘grow your own’ career pathways has helped reduce reliance on agency workers, increase permanent staffing and provide greater consistency for families.

Councillor Umme Ali, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, said: “I am delighted that Ofsted inspectors have recognised the hard work and dedication of our staff, partners and young people.

“We have worked tirelessly to deliver a clear and ambitious improvement programme, transforming our system to ensure children and families receive the right help at the right time.

“Our principle of ‘less corporate, more parent’ ensures that children’s voices and lived experiences are at the heart of our decision making.

“The progress recognised by Ofsted shows that outcomes for children and families are improving and demonstrates the real impact of the love, care and commitment shown by our staff and partners every day.

“While we recognise there are still areas where further improvements are needed, we are very proud of how far we have come and remain committed to strengthening our services so that every child in Luton can receive the care and support they need to thrive.”

Inspectors highlighted the service’s strong role in supporting care leavers with noted improvements since the focussed visit in 2024. Areas of progress include a newly developed ‘local offer’ with clear support into education, employment and training, noted improvements in the accommodation offer, and effective multi-agency support. However, they also identified the need to ensure all care leavers receive a consistently good service. Work to address these areas is already underway and a plan remains in place to deliver further improvements.