SERVICES for children and young people in South Ayrshire have been given the thumbs-up by inspectors.

In 2016 the Care Inspectorate were not confident that leaders were working effectively together to improve the wellbeing of children and young people. 

But following a progress review earlier this year, they have identified significant improvements in the way services are delivered.

The Care Inspectorate’s report recognises the very good progress made by South Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership across five areas for improvement identified in its October 2016 report.

The partners – South Ayrshire Council, South Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, NHS Ayrshire & Arran, Police Scotland and a range of public and voluntary sector partners – have been working closely since the 2016 report to make a real difference for children and young people.

Councillor Douglas Campbell, Chairman of the South Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership, said: “This report makes for very positive reading and is testament to the efforts of the Council, Health and Social Care Partnership and our community planning partners. 

“Together, we are committed to ensuring our children and young people have the best possible start in life and the support and opportunities to reach their full potential – especially the most vulnerable children and young people.”

Areas for improvement were: 
• Strengthening strategic leadership and direction 
• Improving early intervention to help those affected by poverty and deprivation 
• Reducing the number of 11-15 year olds accommodated away from home
• Better planning and use of resources to ensure children and young people get the right help at the right time 
• More effective planning through the Integrated Children’s Services Plan and Child Protection Committee 

As a result, inspectors have agreed that no further review work is required in relation to the 2016 report.