DORSET has dramatically improved assessments for the children it has with disabilities in the care of social workers.

The number of assessments completed within the 45-day target has increased from 44.5 per cent to 97 per cent over the course of a year.

At the end of March there were 49 children who are disabled in care, supported by specialist social workers – of these 26 were placed with foster carers, three at home with their parents while subject to Care Orders, and 18 in residential care due to the level and complexity of their needs. Most of these are living out of the county.

A report to the council’s corporate parenting boards next week (15th) says that performance has improved with staffing levels stabilising over the last six months although there are still vacancies in the Dorchester area.

It also notes that problems remain in finding placements for children who have behavioural problems and could be a risk to others or themselves.