Blackpool Council appoints new director to lead adult services
Blackpool Council has appointed Martin Lawton as its new Director of Adult Services.
Martin, who is currently Deputy Director of Adult Services at Rochdale Borough Council, will take up the role in Blackpool this summer.
He began his career as a social worker at Salford Royal Hospital before spending 15 years with Liverpool City Council. During that time, he worked in a range of operational and senior management roles across mental health and neighbourhood teams.
He later joined Rochdale Borough Council as Deputy Director of Adult Services in 2022.
In his new role, Martin will lead Blackpool Council’s adult services work, including its ongoing efforts to improve adult social care and support stronger communities across the town.
The council says he will join at an important time, as work continues to develop services that help adults take greater ownership of the care and support that works for them.
His appointment also comes as local authorities prepare for the challenges linked to Local Government Reorganisation.
Cllr Neal Brookes, Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for adult social care, said: “I’m pleased to welcome Martin to the Blackpool family.
“People who work in Blackpool and for the council are really committed to making our town better for the people who live here and Martin really showed that commitment to make a difference.
“He will join us at a really interesting time, as we are making improvements to our adult social care in a way that will help adults to take ownership of the care that works for them and looking ahead to the challenge that will come with Local Government Reorganisation.
“Fortunately for Martin, he will lead a workforce that is highly passionate and committed to the task at hand — making sure that everybody who needs to draw on our support can rely on an excellent service.”