An Aberdeenshire after-school club has been told to do more to challenge bullies.
The Care Inspectorate rated the management at Balmedie Out of School Club as “weak” after an unannounced visit earlier this year.
The Aberdeenshire Council-run facility offers breakfast and after-school care for around 40 children.
But inspectors noted in their report that one child told them they were “picked on” which left them “sad and angry”.
A council spokesman said allegations of bullying were taken “extremely seriously” and that the findings of the inspection had been noted.
The Care Inspectorate also demanded more employees were brought in to meet the standard ratio of staff to children.
Concerns were raised over the leadership of the new staff at the club, with more needed to help their development.
Inspectors found minimal improvement had been made to improve children’s safety, well-being and quality of experience since their last visit last March.
They demanded better planning by staff for each child, which would help staff meet their individual needs.
An Aberdeenshire Council spokesman said: “Inspectors acknowledge that an enthusiastic new team with a range of skills and experience has recently been put in place.
“We are pleased that the inspectors recognised that improvements have been made to safeguarding and child protection procedures.
“That said, we recognise that progress is needed across a range of areas and are working with the out of school club on their journey towards improvement.”
The club was told to develop ways for children and families to suggest ideas and improvements by the end of the month.