Our People

As the statutory Director of Children’s Services for Southwark, I have professional responsibility for the leadership, strategy and effectiveness of our Children's Services. 

I am responsible for securing the provision of services which address the needs of all children and young people, including the most disadvantaged and vulnerable, and their families and carers.

I am responsible for the performance of local authority functions relating to the education and social care of children and young people. As well as ensuring that effective systems are in place for discharging these functions.

Alasdair Smith, Director of Children’s Services

My senior leadership team includes the Assistant Directors with responsibility for our education and children’s social care, help and support functions. They are:

• Helen Woolgar, Deputy Director, Children's Social Care​
• Anna Chiva, Deputy Director for Children Services, Learning and Inclusion
• Nikki Tilson, Assistant Director, School Partnerships, Standards and Sustainability
• Jenny Brennan, Assistant Director, Family Early Help & Youth Justice
• Jenny Taylor, Assistant Director, Clinical Practice
• Michael Crowe, Assistant Director, Transformation & Operations