CHILDREN in the town receive an excellent standard of care, according to a glowing Ofsted report.

Following an inspection from April 28 to May 25 this year, a report into Bracknell Forest Council's Children's Services was released this morning.

Rated 'Good' overall, the body was judged 'Outstanding' for its adoption services.

The report comes around a year after children's services in Reading and Slough were roundly criticised with 'Inadequate' ratings.

Councillor Gareth Barnard, executive member for children, young people and learning, said: “This report shows that we are providing services that are good quality.

"Most importantly, it confirms we are giving the right support for children and families that need the council’s help and are putting the needs of vulnerable children first.

"The report stands comparison with any that Ofsted have produced in the past.

"Our staff work tirelessly and under great pressure to ensure the impacts on children and young people are at the heart of every decision made. I would like to congratulate and thank them for their effort and dedication."

Cllr Barnard went on to say that, despite the positive report, the council would continue to improve the service.

There were some slightly less flattering aspects of the report. Around 28,158 under-18s live in Bracknell Forest, 10 per cent of whom live in poverty.

In primary and secondary school eight and seven per cent receive free school meals respectively - seven and six per cent lower than the national average, but still a significant number.

In the last year 928 young people were identified as being in need of a specialist children's service, 89 more than last year.

Moreover, 56 more children were subject to a child protection plan at April 28, 2017 than at March 31, 2016.

On a more positive note, 50 children ceased to be looked after and none returned to care.

Part of the report reads: "The councillors and managers really want children to do well, and they make decisions that put children first.

"When children and families need help, there are plenty of services available and, in almost all cases, children receive the right help at the right time.

"Inspectors found that a small number of children should have been looked after sooner in order to keep them safe. Managers recognised this and had already made changes to stop this happening in future."

Click here to read the full report.