Being held to account when things go wrong is part and parcel of the job for directors of children's services (DCSs). But when Haringey Council dismissed Sharon Shoesmith after the death of Baby P, the rules of engagement changed.
Almost a fortnight ago, a high court judge, Mr Justice Foskett, rejected Shoesmith's claim that she was unlawfully sacked.
But he warned that Haringey's actions could have caused long-term damage to national safeguarding arrangements by discouraging future DCSs from taking up the role. After all, the prospect of facing trial by media and politicians is hardly going to tempt people into the job.
The government is running programmes to support DCSs through the National College, which are having a positive impact. But with an average of 30 per cent of DCSs leaving their jobs over the past year, does more need to be done to encourage professionals to what is an unquestionably demanding role?
Demoralised staff
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