The decision follows significant improvements across children's services over recent years and represents a major milestone in the council's work to deliver better outcomes for children and young people across Herefordshire.

The council has worked closely with staff, partners, elected members and independent advisers to strengthen services and ensure children and families receive the support they need.

The latest decision builds on the progress recognised by Ofsted, which announced Herefordshire's children's services to be Good, with Outstanding leadership in January this year.

The ending of government intervention reflects confidence in the council's ability to sustain improvement and continue delivering high-quality services for children, young people and families.

Cllr Jonathan Lester, Leader of Herefordshire Council, said: 

"This is a significant moment for Herefordshire and one that everyone involved in our improvement journey should be proud of.

"The decision to end government intervention recognises the hard work, commitment and determination shown by our staff, partners and elected members over a number of years. Most importantly, it reflects the improvements made for children, young people and families across the county.

"We have transformed our children's services, moving from a position where external intervention was necessary to one where there is confidence in our ability to lead and continue to develop good services ourselves. I could not be more proud.”

Cllr Ivan Powell, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:

"The ‘Good’ judgement from Ofsted, alongside its recognition of our ‘Outstanding’ leadership, showed how far we've come. This latest decision is further evidence of that progress.

"While we are proud of this achievement, we know our work does not stop here. We remain focused on implementing the new national reforms incusing Families First and the SEND Reforms that are in line with our vision to support vulnerable children and young people and ensure every child in Herefordshire has the opportunity to thrive."

Tina Russell, Corporate Director for Children and Young People, said:

"This is a welcomed endorsement of the progress we have made. Improving outcomes for children and young people has been a priority for the organisation and for our partners.

"I would like to thank every member of the Children’s workforce, our colleagues within the council, our wide range of partners and importantly our children and families who have all contributed to this achievement, particularly our frontline staff, whose dedication has helped drive lasting change."

The Department for Education's decision will be reported to Cabinet today (Thursday 30 July).

You can read a full copy of the Department for Education’s letter to the Leader of Herefordshire Council online.