On 27 July 2011 Ofsted published its proposals for new arrangements for the inspection of local authority children’s services, for implementation in May 2012.

These proposals build on the strengths and the lessons learned from the current inspection programme of local authority services for safeguarding and looked after children and the unannounced inspections of contact, referral and assessment arrangements, while taking full account of the recommendations of the Munro review of child protection.

Ofsted seeks the widest possible range of views from those who have an interest in, or expertise relating to, services for vulnerable children and young people in order to ensure that the inspection arrangements take proper account of the needs and circumstances of all interested parties. Above all, the arrangements must assure the quality of services and the achievement of the best possible outcomes for children in need of protection or care.

The closing date for the consultation is 30 September 2011.

More information and consultation documents can be found on and downloaded from the Ofsted website http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/arrangements-for-inspection-of-local-authority-childrens-services.