Job Description

We are seeking an experienced, highly motivated and child-focused Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) / Child Protection Officer (CPO) to join our safeguarding and quality assurance service.

In this vital role, you will confidently and independently chair Child Protection Conferences, Strategy Meetings, Looked After Children Reviews and Secure Accommodation Reviews, ensuring that all statutory responsibilities are consistently met to the highest standard.

You will play a key role in safeguarding children and young people by ensuring robust care planning, effective multi-agency working and strong oversight of child protection processes. This includes the efficient production and review of Child Protection Plans, co-ordinating investigations, quality assuring practice and auditing plans to ensure risks are minimised and best practice is achieved.

As an experienced IRO/CPO, you will bring a strong background in children s social care, with specialist knowledge of child protection procedures, legislation and practice. You will have a proven track record in care planning and decision-making and will ideally have experience working at Team Manager level or above.

You will be skilled in building and maintaining positive professional relationships across partner agencies through effective communication, collaboration and engagement. You will also be confident in providing constructive challenge where required, ensuring plans progress effectively and creatively to achieve the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

The successful candidate will be able to provide clear, balanced and child-centred decision-making, ensuring that the voice of the child is heard, understood and remains central to all planning and review processes.

We are looking for someone with passion, resilience and commitment to improving outcomes for children, young people and families, helping to make a lasting and positive difference to their lives and future opportunities.

• Qualified Social Worker with current registration with Social Work England
• Significant experience within children s social care and safeguarding services
• Extensive knowledge of child protection legislation, policy and statutory guidance
• Experience of chairing complex multi-agency meetings and reviews
• Strong analytical, communication and decision-making skills
• Ability to challenge appropriately and drive effective care planning

This post is subject to:

• An Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
• Satisfactory references and pre-employment checks
• Continued registration with Social Work England as a qualified Social Worker.