New children's services chief

A NEW director of children’s services has been appointed at Warrington.
The borough council has appointed Kath O’Dwyer, currently deputy head of children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, to take over from Norma Cadwallader when she retires in the autumn.
Kath will bring 26 years of experience in the delivery of services to children and young people in local authorities, with particular expertise in leading transformational change.
In her new role, she will be seeking to build on the existing foundations of strong partnerships and positive performance to further enhance and improve opportunities for children and young people in the borough.
She will ensure that, through partnership working, the most vulnerable children are safeguarded and that the council’s work with all children and young people helps them to reach their full potential.
Coun Sheila Woodyatt, executive member for children’s services said: “I am delighted Kath has agreed to join our organisation and know that her expertise and understanding of the children’s services agenda will bring huge benefits for local children and young people.”
Norma Cadwallader, the current director, said: “Kath has all the necessary skills, experience and drive to develop and build on the current success of the children’s services directorate. She is passionate about putting children’s services at the heart of the corporate agenda and engaging key partners to deliver the best possible start for all young people in Warrington.”
Diana Terris, chief executive said: “I am confident we have attracted exactly the right person to help us develop children’s services and look forward to working with Kath in the future.”