Sandwell Children’s Trust has received a positive Ofsted judgement for its adoption service, marking further progress in services for children and families across the borough.
The adoption service was rated ‘Good’ overall, with ‘Outstanding’ leadership and management with no areas for improvement identified by inspectors. The judgement comes on the back of Sandwell’s recent overall ‘Good’ rating for children’s services.
Sandwell Children’s Trust delivers adoption services in partnership with the regional adoption agency, Adoption@Heart. Ofsted recognised this strong, joined up way of working as contributing to timely, well informed decisions and positive outcomes for children.
Inspectors highlighted that children are helped to move into stable, loving homes through careful planning and a consistent, child centred approach. Strong safeguarding arrangements, effective partnership working and trauma informed practice were also identified as strengths, alongside good support for adoptive families.
Emma Taylor, Chief Executive of Sandwell Children’s Trust, said: “This positive judgement for the adoption service builds on Sandwell’s recent overall ‘Good’ Ofsted rating for children’s services and reflects the strength of the partnership between Sandwell Children’s Trust and Adoption@Heart.
“It shows that children are being supported by skilled professionals who work together to secure stable families and the best possible outcomes.
“By working closely together, we are able to keep children at the centre of decision making, ensure their voices are heard and help them achieve permanence and security as early as possible.”
Sally Giles, Executive Director for Children and Education at Sandwell Council, said: “I welcome this positive judgement for Sandwell Children’s Trust’s adoption service, which follows the recent overall ‘Good’ rating for children’s services.
“Children having the best start in life is a top priority for everyone and at the heart of our Child Friendly Sandwell ambitions.”
Leadership within the adoption service was highlighted by Ofsted as a particular strength, with clear oversight, a strong learning culture and a relentless focus on improving children’s experiences and long term stability.
Together with all partners, Sandwell Children’s Trust will continue to build on this positive progress, so that children and young people in Sandwell grow up safe, supported and able to thrive.
To start your adoption journey, visit Adoption@Heart’s website for information and advice from Adoption@Heart. We always want to hear from people who are interested in adoption. We have children of all ages and backgrounds who need a stable family home. You don’t have to live in Sandwell, to adopt with us – we also welcome enquiries from across the West Midlands and surrounding areas.
Read the Ofsted report in full. The report was published by Ofsted on Wednesday 22 April 2026.
