Ofsted Inspectors gave Richmond's independent fostering service a 'good' status in its recent report that reviewed children's services in Richmond and neighbouring boroughs.

Achieving for Children (AfC) is owned by Richmond Council as well as offering both short and long-term children's services in Kingston, Windsor and Maidenhead Councils.

Matthew Edwards, Associate Director for Provider Services for AfC, said: "We are pleased that Ofsted has given this independent verification of the quality of our service.

"This is testament to the hard work and commitment of our foster carers and the staff that support them.

"However, we have more work to do to make sure we are tailoring our care and support to improve outcomes for every child being fostered.

"We also need to make sure as part of our recruitment plans that we have enough foster carers in the local area to meet demand”.

AfC services vary from foster placements, including adolescents, sibling groups, parent and child placements to children with complex needs.

The recent Ofsted report praises the “high-quality” foster care placements and recognises the positive outcomes for children and young people who access the service.

Ofsted noted that "children and young people receive personalised care that meets their needs" and "the agency pays good attention to issues of equality and diversity."

It also observed that "children and young people feel listened to" and the report also highlighted that "preparation of older young people for their transition to adulthood is good."

Cllr Penny Frost, Richmond Council Chair of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said:“It’s great to see that Ofsted has praised the work being carried out by Achieving for Children Fostering to ensure children and young people are fully supported and offered the best environment to grow and thrive Richmond upon Thames as part of our ambition to be the most child-friendly borough.

“Congratulations and thank you to staff in the fostering team and to all the foster carers who work hard to ensure that some of our most vulnerable young people have safe and secure homes.”