Harrow Council has officially designated Róisín Madden as the statutory Director of Children's Services, a move formally approved at the Annual Council meeting on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Madden had been appointed to the role of Strategic Director of Children's Services by the Chief Officers' Employment Panel on March 26, 2026. This council meeting confirmed her designation to the statutory position, which is mandated by the Children Act 2004.
The Act requires local authorities to appoint a Director of Children's Services responsible for education, children's social care, safeguarding, and promoting the welfare of children. Prior to Madden's permanent appointment, the statutory post was filled on an interim basis by the Managing Director. This interim arrangement was put in place to ensure continuity of leadership, compliance with statutory duties, and to carry out the functions outlined in Article 7 of the Council's Constitution.
The report presented to the council confirmed that the position is fully budgeted for within the Children's Services budget and meets the statutory requirement under Section 18 of the Children Act 2004. Further details regarding the council meeting can be found in the Public reports pack.
