FOLLOWING the retirement of Brighter Futures for Children’s Deborah Glassbrook from the position of director of children’s services, a new DCS has been appointed.
BFfC and Reading Borough Council have announced that Lara Patel has been appointed as her successor and will begin work in the position in the new year.
Ms Patel has 25 years’ worth of experience working in children’s service in both local authorities and in the voluntary sector.
Most recently she has worked as the deputy director of children’s services at Oxfordshire County Council.
In the new role, she will split her time between the council and BFfC, with the role having responsibilities to leadership teams of both organisations.
Most of her time will be spent with BFfC as she takes a position as an executive member on its board.
Di Smith, executive director and board chair for BFfC, said: “We are delighted that Lara will be joining us as the new DCS for Reading.
“Lara has significant experience of leading change, working in partnership with staff and partners and a solid track record of developing strong collaborative partnerships, internally and externally.”
Leader of Reading Borough Council Cllr Jason Brock said: “We have been fortunate to find a new Director of Children’s Services with Lara’s experience, in-depth knowledge of children’s social care and passion for improving the delivery of children’s services in Reading.
“During these challenging times it is more important than ever that good quality services are provided to children, young people and their families in Reading. I look forward to welcoming Lara as she takes the lead in this vital role.”
