Westminster Council has appointed a new cabinet member for children and young people, it was announced today (Monday February 1st).

Cllr Nickie Aiken, previously deputy cabinet member for children and young people, has taken over from Cllr Mark Page with immediate effect.

In her new role, Cllr Aiken will oversee several areas including education, fostering, adoption and social services.

Cllr Colin Barrow, leader of Westminster Council, said: "I am delighted that Cllr Aiken has taken on this role.

"She has a wide breadth of experience in children's services and has the right skills, attributes and qualities that are needed to help take forward the council's work to improve education and boost aspirations for pupils across Westminster."

Since last May Cllr Aiken has been working as deputy cabinet member in this portfolio.

She was also previously chairman of the children and young people policy and scrutiny committee in 2008/9, where she led on the work to improve services for looked after children, provision for pre-school children and 14 to 19-year-olds.

She is also currently a member of the Committee of the Cabinet on Improving Education in Westminster, which is implementing the findings of the Education Commission.

Cllr Aiken's professional background includes more than 20 years in public relations and corporate communications including working for the leading charity The Children's Society. She is also a mother of two children, who attend schools in Westminster.

Cllr Aiken said: "I am delighted to have been appointed to this role as this is a very exciting opportunity. In the coming months, I am looking forward to implementing the recommendations made by the Education Commission.

"My aspiration is to provide all children and young people with an outstanding education and to make Westminster and even better place to grow up. We want young people to have the best possible employment opportunities and life chances."

Cllr Page has stepped down from the role as he and his family are moving to Dorset. He will not be contesting his Marylebone High Street ward seat in the local elections in May.

Cllr Page also previously served as chairman of the finance and resources scrutiny committee and was deputy lord mayor.

Cllr Barrow said: "I would like to thank Cllr Page for his many years of service in a variety of senior roles at Westminster. He has made a valuable contribution to the city and we wish him and his family the very best of luck in the future."

Cllr Mehfuz Ahmed will remain as deputy cabinet member for children and young people.

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