Children’s and social care services at Bradford Council are to be placed in a trust in the wake of the Star Hobson case.

The council had contact with the family of 16-month-old Star before she was murdered by her mother’s girlfriend.

The not-for-profit trust will be owned by the council but operate at arms-length under the control of a new independent chair and board of directors.

The trust will “drive rapid improvements” after recommendations made to Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi by the children’s services commissioner in Bradford in the West Yorkshire city.

Mr Zahawi said: “Keeping vulnerable children safe from harm is non-negotiable. Where a council is not meeting its duty to do this, we will take action to protect children and put their needs first.

“It’s clear from the recommendations made by the commissioner in Bradford that the council needs support to improve and so I’m pleased that Bradford Council have agreed to establish a new trust that will bring positive change for the council and independent oversight that drives improvements.

“This is an important moment for children and families in Bradford, and for social workers and other professionals who want to create meaningful and effective relationships with them.

“These professionals take highly complex decisions each day to protect children, and I am grateful for the effort that goes into each one.”

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