Coventry City Council is injecting massive funds into its much criticised social services department. It has also appointed a new supremo to pull it into shape.

Peter Smallridge, one of the most respected national figures on child protection and a former President of the Association of Directors of Social Services, has been appointed troubleshooter.

He will oversee plans to improve the social services department and help to recruit a new social services director.

Bill Hendley, the previous director, resigned within days of two damning reports which ranked his department among the four worst in the country.

The relevant council committees are also being asked to agree a large injection of funds, believed to be more than £500,000, for the city's child protection services. The money will help to fund additional staff.

Mr Smallridge, former director of social services in Warwickshire and recently retired head of Kent's social services, will oversee action plans recommended to put the department back on track.

He will also produce proposals for management development, training and team development and make recommendations for improving relationships with other organisations involved in child protection.

He will spend two days a week in Coventry from late November and will be in post for at least six months.

Ian Roxburgh, Coventry's Chief Executive and Town Clerk, said: