Ofsted has delivered a glowing review of children's services in Greenwich, praising how they have responded to the "significant challenges" of the pandemic.

The report, which has seen the services rated as 'Good' by Ofsted, found Greenwich Council's children's services had "strengthened their performance" since the last inspection two years ago, and had "responded well" to the restrictions posed by the pandemic.

A two-day inspection in July found that the borough's children's services had created a sophisticated and effective systems to address risks to children outside of their family home, including that of knife crime and exploitation.

Low caseloads, reflective supervision and support was creating a solid foundation for social workers to have a positive impact on children’s lives.

Ofsted carried out the focused visit to look at our arrangements for young people who are aged between 15 and 18 and subject to child-in-need plans, child protection plans or receiving a specialist service.

However, the watchdog said what needed to improve was better contingency planning for children in need of protection, the full consideration of family history and the engagement with children.

Ofsted said some aspects were "inconsistent" across the service, but that senior leaders have clearly identified these areas, and have plans in place to effect changes.

Councillor Matt Morrow, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “This report is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our fantastic social workers and all children’s services staff. It’s reassuring to see that, despite the pandemic, our service continues to be at a high level, and getting better.

“Ofsted’s inspection shows we are committed to responding to challenges for the benefit of our children and young people. We know the risks our young people face with knife crime and gangs, and as inspectors recognised, we are committed to putting in place a system that keeps the children in our borough safe from exploitation.

“To have strengthened our performance considering the immeasurable challenges of COVID-19 is an amazing achievement, and I know there are no plans to slow down in this incredibly ambitious department.”