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Welcome to my web pages. On these pages, I will keep you up to date with the important things which are happening in the council. You can also find out how to contact me and get information on the role which the Leader plays in the council and the Borough as a whole.

April - May 2008

Appointment of new Chief Executive

Andrew Kilburn, who is currently Chief Executive of Oldham MBC, has been appointed as our new Chief Executive by a cross party group of Councillors including myself.  

Andrew has a great deal of experience as a local authority Chief Executive. He has worked in local government for over 30 years, becoming Chief Executive of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council in 1995 before moving to Oldham in 1999.  The appointment is subject to confirmation at the next full Council meeting.

Child Poverty Strategy Update

Our local Child Poverty Strategy is continuing to take shape.  The WorkNet Partnership Scheme, which aims to help 600 people access sustainable employment and 600 take up training opportunities will be at the centre of our work.  

Last week I visited Sybourn Children’s Centre to meet children, staff and parents.  This presented an ideal opportunity to launch our plans to take the lead in tackling child poverty and unlocking the talents of all our residents.   

Workers Memorial Day

On 28 April I attended and spoke at the Council’s service to mark Workers Memorial Day.  Worldwide millions die or are injured each year as a result of workplace hazards.  I was honoured to lay a wreath in order to remember those who have been injured or lost their lives whilst working.  

Launch of the Young People Affected by Crime Service

On Thursday 8 May I attended and spoke at the launch of our Young People Affected by Crime Service (YPAC).  This excellent service, which provides support and guidance to young victims of crime, was formally launched by the Attorney General Baroness Patricia Scotland.  

YPAC demonstrates that the Criminal Justice System is about supporting victims as well as punishing offenders - restoring faith in our communities that the system is on their side.  It helps young people to rebuild their self-confidence after often traumatic incidents.  

Update on SCS

The work to develop our Sustainable Communities Strategy is now nearing an end.  The Strategy sets out a clear and exciting set of priorities for the authority around tackling worklessness, raising the aspirations of young people, maximising the potential for regeneration, providing affordable housing and improving our public realm.  Details of our launch events will be available shortly, further information can be found at   http://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/index/community/ourplace.htm.