Children's Local Authority Designated Officer - Redbridge
An experienced and highly motivated social work professional is required to undertake the role of Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), supporting the effective management of allegations concerning adults who work with children. This is a key safeguarding position, providing advice, consultation and oversight to ensure that concerns are handled promptly, fairly and in line with statutory guidance and local procedures.
You will receive and assess referrals relating to people who work or volunteer with children, determine whether the threshold for LADO involvement has been met, and advise on appropriate next steps. You will coordinate and chair strategy discussions, allegations management meetings and review meetings where required, ensuring that information is shared appropriately and that investigations are progressed within agreed timescales. The role will involve close partnership working with children’s social care, the police, education, health, regulatory bodies, employers and other relevant agencies.
Responsibilities will include maintaining accurate and confidential records, monitoring the progress and outcomes of cases, identifying learning from practice, and contributing to safeguarding training, policy development and service improvement. You will provide professional challenge where necessary and ensure that the rights, welfare and best interests of children remain central to all decision-making.
Applicants should hold a recognised social work qualification and registration with the relevant professional body, alongside substantial post-qualifying experience in children’s social care and safeguarding. You will have a sound understanding of legislation, statutory guidance and procedures relating to allegations against people who work with children. Experience of managing complex safeguarding matters, chairing multi-agency meetings and providing clear professional advice is essential.
You will need excellent communication, organisation and analytical skills, together with the confidence to work independently and make balanced, defensible decisions. The ability to manage sensitive information, meet deadlines and build effective relationships with professionals at all levels is vital. A commitment to anti-discriminatory practice, partnership working and continuous improvement is also expected.