Great news for families in Bridgend! 🌟 A recent report by Care Inspectorate Wales has highlighted some major improvements in the children’s services provided by Bridgend County Borough Council. After facing significant challenges, particularly following the tragic case of Logan Mwangi in 2021, the council has made impressive strides.
Key areas of progress include increased workforce stability and improved quality assurance. Just to give you an idea: agency staff numbers have drastically reduced from 41% in 2023 to a mere 7% by June 2025. Plus, staff morale is up, which is always a positive sign!
One of the standout successes has been in the area of early intervention. An impressive 92% of children receiving edge-of-care services in 2024-25 avoided entering the care system. This has relieved pressure on statutory services and shown that earlier support is truly making a difference.
The report lauds the local authority’s timely response to safeguarding inquiries and notes strong partnership work through the multi-agency safeguarding hub. However, it’s not all rosy. There’s still room for growth, especially in ensuring consistent practice across teams and increasing placement options for foster care and residential spaces.
Cllr Jane Gebbie, cabinet member for social services, celebrated the report, calling it a “hugely impressive” demonstration of progress over the last two years.
While there’s been notable progress, with improvements already making a tangible difference, Bridgend is committed to continuing this positive trajectory.
Let’s keep the momentum going for the sake of Bridgend’s young ones! 💪✨