A social worker with a history of outstanding work has been appointed as the corporate director for children and young people in North Yorkshire.
El Mayhew, who is currently director of children and families at Hertfordshire County Council, will join her new role in the new year.
El said: “I’m excited by the opportunities ahead to build on strong partnerships and practice and to unlock even better ways of tackling inequality and delivering great outcomes for children and young people through the ambition and structure of the new council and as we navigate forthcoming national reforms.
“I’m looking forward to listening to what children and young people say they need to thrive, and working closely with teams, communities, schools and partners to help shape our priorities in North Yorkshire.”
Meet El Mayhew who has been appointed as our corporate director for children and young people.
— North Yorkshire Council (@northyorksc) November 4, 2025
She is currently director of children and families at Hertfordshire County Council and has a track record in delivering outstanding children’s services.
El, who will join us early in… pic.twitter.com/UuDevKPzZx
She is passionate about tackling inequalities and securing great outcomes for children.
Since qualifying as a social worker 26 years ago, she has progressed through senior leadership roles across children’s services in various local authorities, including large and rural counties like North Yorkshire.
El added: “I want North Yorkshire to be the best place for children, families and young people to live and grow up.”
A recent achievement of hers includes supporting the rollout of the ICON programme across Hertfordshire helping parents and preventing harm to babies.
Executive member for children and families, Cllr Janet Sanderson, said: “I would like to congratulate El on her appointment following a rigorous recruitment and interview process.
“I look forward to working closely with her to ensure that a service already rated ‘outstanding’ continues to grow and excel even further, delivering the very best for children and families in North Yorkshire.”
El will take over the role following the departure of Sir Stuart Carlton who led children’s service at North Yorkshire Council for eight years.