Dorset Council’s Executive Director for Children’s Services, Theresa Leavy, has been named as the Municipal Journal’s (MJ) Corporate Director of the Year
The announcement was made at the MJ Achievement Awards ceremony in London.
Theresa, who has worked at the council since 2020, is an inspiring leader who is helping to transform the lives of families and young people across the county.
She has three decades of experience in social work, including working at director level for the last 10 years.
Theresa is transforming Children’s Services and introducing new initiatives that make a difference to the lives of families. She has created a new ‘Thrive’ locality model to bring together experts from early years, social care, educational psychology, special needs and inclusion. This innovative way of working ensures families are receiving tailored help to meet their needs and at the right time.
Under Theresa’s leadership two new specialist family hubs were created in Ferndown and Wimborne. These centres are places where families can access a wide range of help and support all in one place. This includes help with mental and physical health, getting a job, looking after children, paying bills and special educational needs services.
Cllr Byron Quayle, Portfolio Holder for People – Children, Education, Skills & Early Help, said:
“This is fantastic news for Theresa. It is testament to her work which directly improves the lives of so many in our communities.
“Her leadership has inspired everyone around her to bring their best to enrich the support and services we provide. And therefore, improving outcomes for children, young people and families in Dorset.”
The impact of Theresa’s leadership was officially praised in an Ofsted inspection last year, when it said Dorset Council was delivering ‘good’ services for improving outcomes for children and young people with ‘outstanding’ leadership. The report added that ‘good work is expected, delivered and celebrated’.
Receiving her award Theresa said:
“This an incredible honour and as far as I’m concerned this recognises the achievements of all my colleagues in children’s services and across Dorset Council as well as our very valued partners.
“Most of all, the biggest award for me is that every child in Dorset is given the best support and opportunities possible which is really important to me personally.”
