Suffolk County Council's cabinet has been reshuffled by beleaguered boss Matthew Hicks following last week's damning report into special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The report prompted the resignation of cabinet member for education Rachel Hood,  her deputy Chris Chambers and James Reeder who was responsible for children's services.

Now Mr Hicks, who has also faced calls to resign alongside chief executive Nicola Beach, has announced a new team - and has shaken up education and other children's services.

Long-serving cabinet member Andrew Reid moves from public protection to take on the education and SEND role.

East Anglian Daily Times: Andrew Reid has a new cabinet roleAndrew Reid has a new cabinet role (Image: Suffolk County Council)

Bobby Bennett has been appointed as cabinet member for children and young people's services.

Mr Hicks has promoted two deputy cabinet members - Philip Faircloth-Mutton who will be responsible for equalities and communities and Craig Rivett who will take on the public protection and health role.

East Anglian Daily Times: Rachel Hood stepped down at the weekendRachel Hood stepped down at the weekend (Image: Charlotte Bond)

Announcing the changes, Mr Hicks said: “I have taken decisive action today to ensure that this authority continues to have a strong cabinet, with a focus on delivering our priorities.

“It is clear that we have not seen the improvements necessary in SEND services. However, I am confident in the determination and tenacity of both Andrew Reid and (deputy cabinet member) Debbie Richards to help council officers drive those improvements forward.

“As a cabinet we have a collective mission, we must see real and lasting improvement in SEND services and deliver on the wider ambitions of this council. The people of Suffolk deserve nothing less.

“Alongside these changes, I am welcoming a number of new faces to the cabinet and deputy cabinet roles.”

Opposition leader and Green Party councillor Andrew Stringer was unimpressed by the changes: "It looks as if he is changing the members of the choir but the song will remain the same.

"There may be new people in these posts but is there a new strategy or structure? I really cannot see how this is going to make any difference - but I suppose we shall have to wait and see!"