A new director for early help and children's social care has been appointed by Croydon Council.

Nick Pendry is currently head of service for social work with families in Westminster Council, and clinical director for the three boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster City Council.

Prior to this he was a children’s services leader for both Hackney Council and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. He has more than 20 years’ experience across a range of roles in children and families social care.

Nick said: “I’m delighted to accept this new role at Croydon. I’m passionate about the demonstrating the difference great social work can make in improving children’s lives, so I’m really excited to join Croydon at this stage in their improvement journey. I’m looking forward to leading the team as we work together to offer all the borough’s children and young people the best possible service.”

Nick starts at Croydon Council on 15 January.

He will report to Robert Henderson, who was appointed as the council’s new executive director for children, families and education last month, and starts at the council on 27 November.

Robert replaces Eleni Ioannides, who was appointed as interim executive director for children, families and education in June 2018. Nick will replace Philip Segurola, appointed as interim director for early help and children’s social care in September 2017.

Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, families and learning, said: “I’m delighted to announce Nick’s appointment. With a strong track record in leading change in children’s social care, he has the expertise and experience to take the reins and lead our service through its improvement journey. I look forward to working with him for the benefit of all our children and families.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank Phillip and Eleni for their hard work and commitment over the last year. We have come a long way since last September and they have been instrumental in achieving this. We wish them both all the best for the future.”