PHIL Picton has been appointed as the new Independent Chair of the Essex Safeguarding Children and Safeguarding Adults Boards.

This key role is to lead the strategic work of both of the boards and ensure that they make a real difference to the safety and well-being of children, young people and adults in Essex.

Mr Picton brings considerable experience to the role as a leader in the public sector with strategic board roles in safeguarding, health and the policing sectors. He has previously chaired safeguarding boards in three local authorities – Hertfordshire, Slough and Central Bedfordshire and was a member of the senior strategic board in the Police Force.

Councillor Dick Madden, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Children, said: “We are delighted to have appointed Phil to this high profile role. He has an excellent track record and extensive knowledge around all aspects of safeguarding. We very much look forward to working with him.”