Powys Children’s Services Praised for Major Turnaround After Years of Concern

Children’s Services in Powys have been praised for a significant turnaround after years of concern, following a recent independent review that found the service to be safe, improving and free from serious failings.

Speaking in Parliament this week, David Chadwick, the Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, used his contribution to highlight Powys as a positive example of how sustained leadership and focus can rebuild vital public services.

In 2017, a BBC investigation warned that children in Powys were being put at risk due to serious weaknesses in the council’s Children’s Services. Inspectors identified missed safeguarding opportunities, poor oversight and inadequate follow-up, with concerns so grave that potential intervention by the Welsh Government was being actively discussed.

Mr Chadwick said that history makes the progress seen today all the more important.

Since 2022, under Liberal Democrat leadership at Powys County Council, Children’s Services have undergone a comprehensive rebuild, with a renewed focus on strong leadership, workforce support and putting children’s safety back at the heart of decision-making.

That work has now been recognised independently. A recent external assurance review concluded that Powys Children’s Services are “safe and improving”, with no serious failings identified. The review highlighted stable leadership, effective advocacy for children through independent reviewing officers, and high-quality performance reporting, precisely the areas that had been criticised in 2017.

The review also found that staff feel supported and proud to work within the service. Powys social workers and safeguarding professionals have received regional awards in recognition of their work protecting children and involving young people directly in shaping how services operate.

While acknowledging that challenges remain, particularly around funding pressures and the availability of suitable placements, Mr Chadwick stressed that the overall direction of travel is clear and positive.

Commenting, Welsh Lib Dem MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe David Chadwick, said:

“Too often we only hear about failure, not about what happens when services are turned around properly. In 2017, Powys Children’s Services were being described as putting children at risk. Today, an independent review judges the service to be safe and improving.

“That doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of sustained leadership, hard work from dedicated staff, and a clear focus on children’s safety. There is more to do, but Powys shows that with the right approach, real improvement is possible and that’s something this House should be willing to recognise.”

ENDS