Boss called in to Haringey after "Baby P" death

9:11am Monday 17th November 2008

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THE boss of children’s services in Hampshire has been called in to a London borough after a 17-month-old baby was killed following months of abuse.

John Coughlan will ensure proper procedures for safeguarding children are being followed while an inquiry into the case of “Baby P” is carried out in the London borough of Haringey.

Mr Coughlan, who works for Hampshire County Council, is regarded as one of the nation’s top children’s services directors, and was called in on the orders of Ed Balls, the Children’s Secretary.

He will work alongside Haringey’s existing children’s services director, Sharon Shoesmith.

Mr Balls has ordered Ofsted, the Commission for Healthcare Audit and Inspection and the Chief Inspector of Constabulary to conduct an inquiry into services in Haringey after receiving a report detailing a string of failings in the case of the child.

The inquiry is due to make an initial report by December 1.

He said: “Haringey have agreed that, with immediate effect, John Coughlan will be seconded to work alongside the director of children’s services for Haringey to ensure that proper procedures for safeguarding children are in place and are being properly applied.

“The case of Baby P is tragic and appalling. It is our duty to take whatever action is needed.”

Councillor Ken Thornber, leader of Hampshire County Council, said: “Hampshire County Council agreed this request on the understanding that this is a supportive role which Hampshire is pleased to be able to offer to another local authority.”

Mr Coughlan has been director of children’s services for Hampshire County Council since 2005. Previously, he was corporate director of social care for Telford and Wrekin Council, and assistant director for Children and Families for Dudley Council.

He is a former president of the Association of Directors of Children’s Services. He is also chairman of the Children’s Inter-Agency Group.