New boss of Sunderland Children Services expected in shakeup
Shakeup of Children's Services in Sunderland expected later, after a report found 'serious and widespread failings'.
It's claimed lessons must be learned to safeguard vulnerable children in Sunderland.
It's as we're expecting a shakeup of the Children's Services later, following "serious and widespread failings" in the department.
Ofsted inspectors rated it as inadequate in July 2015, while several serious case reviews are still ongoing.
Today in Sunderland City Council's annual meeting, we're set to hear about a new boss on top of extra staff and outside experts already brought in.
The meeting’s agenda lists the Council Leader’s proposed appointments to the Cabinet for the coming year, including Louise Farthing, Labour Councillor for Washington South, as the proposed new Cabinet Member for Children’s Services.
The Leader of Council, Deputy Leader of the Council and the 5 other cabinet positions are all due to stay in the same hands.
All 75 city councillors will be asked to ‘note’ the Leader’s choices at the meeting.
Naturally, opposing parties to the labour run group have been quick to comment on plans.
Niall Hodson, Liberal Democrat councillor for Millfield & Thornholme, said:
“It seems that ruling councillors have finally realised that new political leadership is required in the Children’s Services department, alongside the new staff and outside experts that have been brought into improve things. And not before time.
“Many parents were rightly horrified that leadership in this vital portfolio was not reassigned following the damning report into failures of management at all levels, and it is baffling that this decision is only being taken now.
“I hope that the new leadership - along with the measures being put in place by the government, staff and the voluntary trust - will bring about the improvements that are desperately needed so that young people and families in Sunderland can get the help and support they need.”
We’ve reached out to Councillor Paul Watson, leader of the Labour run Sunderland City Council, but he’s been unavailable for comment.