“I was delighted to take up the role of Independent Scrutineer role with the DSCP in late 2025.  I retired from policing in 2024 after 30+ years’ service and I have extensive experience of leading child protection teams and working with partners to improve offer to local families.  The scrutineer role allows me to act as a constructive friend to the partnership.  Offering an independent lens into the work of the partnership, with the objective of help the partnership improve outcomes for children and their families.  I very much see that I represent the public interest, and I will be working hard to make sure the voice of Dorset children is heard when decisions are being made about matters that impact them.  I work with several other partnerships and I hope to also be able to help Dorset benchmark against other areas – sharing best practice with and from Dorset.

I am married with two daughters, one stepdaughter and a cocker spaniel!  We have been renovating our home for the last year and I dream of the day when I can have a proper day off as there are no DIY tasks on the to do list!

In terms of an interesting fact, I am a descendent of William Shakespeare – but sadly I don’t get any royalties!”

Ben Mant | Independent Scrutineer (Dorset Safeguarding Children Partnership)