Every upper tier local authority is required to appoint a director of children's services (DCS). The functions of the role, as set out in the Children Act 2004, include responsibility for children and young people receiving education or children's social care services in their area, and all children looked after by the LA or in custody. It is a politically restricted statutory child officer post and the only job in local government that has a national job description. The holder has responsibility for substantial budgets.
Working closely with the lead member for Children's Services, the DCS provides strategic local leadership and development to meet the safety, educational, social and emotional needs of children and young people. He or she creates opportunities for co-operation with local partners in health, police, schools, housing services, early years, youth justice, probation, higher and further education and employers with the aim of providing a holistic package of services.
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