The Ofsted report showing that Children’s Services in Sunderland are inadequate is very worrying and its findings are unacceptable.  I am heartened, however, by the fact the Council seem to have taken on board Ofsted’s recommendations and have started to act to improve safeguarding standards in Sunderland.  

The children and young people of our city should not be in this position.  We now need to look forward to ensure that safeguarding and the care of vulnerable children is brought up to an acceptable standard as a matter of urgency.

Julie Elliott MP