Enfield Send services rated highest possible by inspectors
Joint Ofsted and CQC report finds positive experiences for children with special needs, but notes long waits for assessments.
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Inspectors from Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission have given Enfield's local area special educational needs and disabilities (Send) partnership the highest rating available. The joint report found that arrangements for children and young people with Send in the borough generally lead to positive experiences and outcomes.
The partnership, which is led by Enfield Council and the NHS West and North London Integrated Care Board, was praised for its strong multi-agency working, clear vision, effective leadership, and meaningful engagement with children, young people, parents, and carers. Inspectors noted a shared commitment to improving outcomes for those with Send.
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Concerns over waiting times
Despite the positive overall assessment, the report raised concerns about long waiting times for assessments and specialist interventions. Prolonged waits for children needing assessments for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism were specifically highlighted. The inspection also noted long-term vacancies and capacity pressures within some services.
Chris Dey, Enfield Council's cabinet member for children's services, stated that the outcome represented a significant achievement for the partnership, reflecting years of dedication and collaboration. He added that the council would continue working with partners, families, and young people to build on strengths and address areas needing improvement.
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Tony Theodoulou, the council's executive director of people, expressed gratitude for the commitment of colleagues across the partnership. He acknowledged the hard work undertaken with the local parent and carer forum, Our Voice, to create a system centred on children, young people, and families, and noted the inspectors' recognition of this effort.
Next steps for the partnership
The local area Send partnership will now carefully review the findings of the report. It will update its strategic plan to incorporate the recommendations made by Ofsted and the CQC, aiming to further enhance provision for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in Enfield.
Questions this report answers
+What was the outcome of the Ofsted and CQC inspection of Send services in Enfield?
Inspectors from Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission awarded Enfield's local area special educational needs and disabilities (Send) partnership the highest possible outcome. The report found that arrangements for children and young people with Send typically lead to positive experiences and outcomes.
+What concerns were raised in the report about Send services in Enfield?
The report highlighted concerns regarding long waiting times for assessments and specialist interventions, particularly for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism. Long-term vacancies and capacity pressures in some services were also noted.
+Who leads the Send partnership in Enfield?
The local area Send partnership in Enfield is led by Enfield Council and the NHS West and North London Integrated Care Board. This partnership is responsible for commissioning services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in the borough.
+What will happen next following the inspection report?
The local area Send partnership will carefully consider the findings of the report and will update its strategic plan in response to the recommendations made by Ofsted and the CQC. This aims to address areas where further improvement is needed.
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