SERVICES caring for children in Essex have been rated as good.

Ofsted judged the services, which are run by Essex County Council to help, protect and care for children and youngsters, to be good in all areas.

Inspections were carried out earlier this year and particularly looked at services for children in need of help and protection as well as children who are in care.

Essex county councillor Dick Madden, who is the Cabinet member for children’s services, said: “I am absolutely delighted with the good rating that Essex has received.

"This is incredibly high praise for all those social workers and employees that have worked tirelessly to improve services for Essex children and I would like to thank them for their commitment and professionalism."