West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership has appointed a new chief social worker.

Jonathan Hinds has relocated to WDHSCP from East Renfrewshire HSCP where he has worked for 14 years, most recently as senior manager for children and families (intensive services) and criminal justice.

He takes over from Jackie Irvine, who left to take up a promoted post in Edinburgh earlier this year.

Jonathan said: “I’m delighted to join West Dunbartonshire HSCP and to continue to deliver excellent services to residents. I look forward to working with the many dedicated teams and building on the great work already being undertaken within the service.

"I look forward to joining the team and working alongside colleagues to further improve the services we provide to residents across West Dunbartonshire."

Jonathan began his career in 1999 as a social worker with Glasgow City Council, before moving to East Renfrewshire where he held a variety of management roles in criminal justice, youth intensive services and permanence. He also spent four years as Chair of East Renfrewshire Fostering and Adoption Panel.

According to the council, at his first meeting of WDHSCP, Jonathan said that improving outcomes for looked-after children would continue to be a priority.

He also stressed the importance of ensuring the voices of children and young people are heard in shaping future policies and services provided by the partnership.

Allan Macleod, chair of West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “I am pleased to welcome Jonathan to his first meeting of the partnership and to hear his vision for children and families in West Dunbartonshire.

"I look forward to working with him and his extensive knowledge will be a great asset to our residents.”