VULNERABLE children and families in Somerset are “not well served”, according to a report by OFSTED.

The governing body inspected 39 of the county's schools, pupil referral units, children's homes, children's centres and nurseries.

The report said that while education standards are improving, the county council was not providing good enough support for its most vulnerable children, young people and families.

It found that a third of 39 settings inspected were less than Good with “too many children’s services providers judged Inadequate.

” In the four children’s homes inspected, none were judged Good or better.

Somerset County Council, who run the services, said they welcomed the constructive feedback and said it will make urgent improvements where necessary.

A spokesperson said: “The report highlights effective school-to-school support in primary schools, with 15 of the 19 inspected being Good or Outstanding, seven increasing their Ofsted rating and eight retaining their Good judgment.

“Three pupil referral units, which cater for some of the most vulnerable children, were inspected and all are judged to be Good.

“Some 80% of the schools inspected for this report are Good or Outstanding and inspectors recognised that the majority of mainstream pupils do well in all key stages.

Cllr Frances Nicholson, cabinet member for Children’s Services, said: “Everyone knows much improvement is needed urgently in many areas, but it's important also to recognise the positives.

“We have put a lot of effort into supporting improvements in primary schools and that is making a difference for children.

“We have acknowledged where things are not good enough for children, we are committed to driving urgent improvements and these are already underway.

“With our education and health partners we must ensure that we support every one of our children to realise their potential.”

Bradley Simmons, OFSTED’s regional director for the South-West, said: “The council deserves credit for its role in improving performance for primary and secondary children from both disadvantaged backgrounds and the most able students.

“However, it’s disheartening to see that the most vulnerable children, young people and families who rely on crucial services for care and support are being let down.

“It cannot be right that children's centres serving over 13,500 children under five years old living in the centres’ catchment area are receiving a poor service.

“Urgent action is required if the council is to secure timely and effective arrangements for the safety and wellbeing of children living in the county.”