Former local government auditor to be chair of Youth Justice Board

Done's appointment has raised a few eyebrows, especially as Children's Secretary Ed Balls told CYP Now he had intervened to ensure the postholder had a background in prevention (CYP Now, 5-11 September).

Done was previously interim director general of the Royal British Legion. Before that she spent three years as managing director for local government at the Audit Commission and three as chief executive of Rochdale Council. She is currently honorary chairman of The Waterways Trust, a charity promoting the benefits of the inland waterways. But she has no direct crime prevention background.

Mike Thomas, chair of the Association of Youth Offending Team Managers, said a fresh pair of eyes could be what was needed. "It may be good that she has no preconceptions," he said. "It's not necessarily bad that she has limited experience as she may be able to see more clearly what needs to change."

Lord Ramsbotham, ex-chief inspector of prisons, said Done would need greater powers to change the system. "It's time the chair was given equal clout in the decision of policy that has been lacking in the past," he said.

Done will take over from interim chair Graham Robb, who remains on the board, on 1 February. Her £85,000 a year appointment will initially be for three years, with an option for ministers to re-appoint her.

Done said: "The board plays a crucial role in protecting the public and the interests of children and young people. I look forward to collaborating with all those who can help build safer communities and ensure young people do not end up in the criminal justice system."

Her appointment comes after a turbulent year for the YJB, with inquests into high profile deaths and the start of a review into restraint in secure centres.

The appointment was made by Justice Secretary Jack Straw and Children's Secretary Ed Balls.