West Wight Children’s Centre has been praised by Ofsted following an inspection which found the centre to be “good” overall.
Both ‘Staying Safe’ and ‘Safeguarding Effectiveness’ were rated as outstanding by inspectors who said: “A particular strength is the exceptional focus given to keeping children and their families safe. Outstanding safeguarding procedures ensure that child protection is very well managed and highly effective.” Laura Villa, centre manager, said: "I am so pleased with the outcome of the inspection. The centre team including our volunteers work tirelessly to support children and families in the West Wight. Keeping children safe is the focus of all of our work, to have this highlighted as such a strength by Ofsted is great. I would like to thank all the families who gave up their time to speak to the inspectors, their support was overwhelming." The inspectors were impressed with West Wight Children’s Centre’s “exceptional focus given to keeping children and their families safe” and “friendly and happy atmosphere”. Strong partnership working Inspectors found the centre to work well with partners at the local authority, health agencies, education providers and Job Centre Plus, recognising in their report that: “Strong partnership working in the foundation of the good provision.” It also found rigorous procedures in place designed to make sure support reaches those families most in need. Appropriate systems are used to measure the direct impact of services and the progress made by families using the centre, although Ofsted said this area could further enhanced, along with giving parents greater involvement in the running of the centre. These two areas will be addressed through an action plan being developed by the centre. Councillor Dawn Cousins, cabinet member for children’s services and education, said: “I would like to congratulate and thank staff at the centre for their hard work in providing a wide range of services in the West Wight community. The Island’s children’s centres have a vital role to play in giving children the best possible starts in life and I’m delighted that yet another of our centres has been praised by Ofsted for the quality of services it provides.” This the seventh Isle of Wight children’s centre to be inspected by Ofsted this year, all of which have been rated as good or outstanding. Good range of services Run by The Children’s Society on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council since April 2011, the centre provides a good range of services for local families. The report can be viewed here: http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports/find-inspection-report/provider/ELS/23528 The Children’s Society runs 44 children’s centres throughout England that support the needs of children under five and their parents or carers. The Children's Society assists families from all backgrounds including new migrant families, young parents and travelling families. A range of services are on offer including advice and help on children’s health and education, outreach to parents and assistance in helping them find training and employment. The centres also give parents or carers the chance to play with their children in a safe and stimulating environment. The centres are free to join and attend and are seen as an important lifeline for many parents and their children.
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