The key role of the Designated Officer (formerly known as the LADO) is to:
➢ Providing advice, information and guidance to employers and voluntary organisations around allegations and concerns regarding paid and unpaid workers and volunteers, recommending a referral as appropriate.
➢ Recommending actions and next steps
➢ Chairing/attending the strategy/joint evaluation meetings in cases where the allegation requires investigation by police and/or social care.
➢ Managing and overseeing individual cases from all partner agencies.
➢ Ensuring the child’s voice is heard and that they are safeguarded.
➢ Ensuring there is a consistent, fair and thorough process for all adults working with children and young people against whom an allegation is made.
➢ Monitoring the progress of cases to ensure they are dealt with as quickly as possible.
➢ Maintain a confidential database in relation to allegations
➢ Share learning from cases and serious case reviews
The Designated Officer covers ALL settings where people work with children (e.g. schools, hospitals, football clubs, church groups, child minders, foster carers, health professionals etc)
The Designated Officer must be contacted before commencing an investigation (maximum within one working day) in respect of all cases in which it is alleged that a person who works with children has:
- behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child;
- possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child; or
- behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children.
