'Social Services Would Never Fiddle the Figures to Look Good. That's an Outrageous Suggestion'; IN THE HOT SEAT

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Byline: ANASTASIA STEPHENS

Is there hope for our embattled social services? Andrew Cozens, president of the Association of Directors of Social Services, answers the tough questions . . .

Q Despite the focus on improving child welfare after the murder of Victoria Climbie nearly four years ago, adult social services continue to significantly outperform children's services. Why?

A This is true but not in the way you describe it. The performance of social service departments has improved significantly over the past three years. In November, more departments were awarded 2-3 stars than 0-1 star for the first time. It's true to say that overall, the performance of children's services has improved less rapidly than adult services. But they have still improved.

Q Two years ago, Brett and Brad Wilson were stabbed to death by their father while social services were monitoring the family. How can "at risk" children still slip through the net?

A This is the key focus of the new Children's Bill which makes it a duty for all agencies to make child protection a priority.

At the …