Review raps lack of coherence in Wales

Welsh officials need to “slow down the rapid rate of change” in children’s services and more accurately cost and fund reforms, according to a major review.

Inconsistency in policy and inadequate planning and delivery have created a “concerning lack of coherence” in the country’s children’s services, says the report of the two-year Safeguarding Vulnerable Children Review, published this week.

Front-line services often appear uncoordinated and are not available when needed, while funding uncertainty “undermines confidence”.

The report outlines seven key challenges to be addressed, including improving the confidence, competency and job satisfaction of people working with children. It also urges a review of funding for children’s services and for children to be put at the heart of service development.