Statement on the passing of Dave Hill

Statement from Birmingham Children’s Trust about the passing of Dave Hill, former Commissioner for Children’s Social Care in Birmingham, at the age of 61.

Dave Hill, one of the country's most distinguished directors of children’s services, died suddenly yesterday (23 June 2020), as announced by Surrey County Council.

Mr Hill initially intended to become an actor. However, he began work at a children’s home in Southwark in 1977 and subsequently trained to be a social worker.

He joined Surrey County Council as executive director of children, lifelong learning and culture in 2018, the year he received a CBE, having moved from Essex County Council.

Andy Couldrick, Chief Executive of Birmingham Children’s Trust, said: “Dave Hill was a great friend to, and supporter of, Birmingham City Council and Birmingham Children’s Trust. He was the Department for Education appointed Commissioner for Children’s Social Care in Birmingham from November 2016, at a crucial time, and oversaw the establishment of the Trust in April 2018.

“Dave was a passionate children’s service leader, absolutely focused on improving services and outcomes for the most vulnerable children. He will be missed, including by all of us in Birmingham.”

Andrew Christie, Chair of Birmingham Children’s Trust, said: “Dave was a long-time colleague of mine. Highly regarded in the sector, as Commissioner of Children’s Services in Birmingham he provided the Trust and the council with sage advice and valuable support at a key stage in the improvement journey. His untimely death is a great loss, not just for his family and friends, but also for his professional colleagues.”

He is survived by his wife Jo, and daughters Laurel and Lydia.