Independant Reviewing Officer

Job Title: Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)

Location:Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council

Salary: Up to £45 per hour

Contract Type: Independent Contractor (flexible hours)

About SeftonMBC:

Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join our dedicated Children's Services team.

Job Purpose:

To provide high-quality, independent chairpersonship for Child Protection Conferences, Child Care Reviews, and other relevant meetings, ensuring the voice of the child is heard and that all parties involved work together effectively to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

Key Responsibilities:

• Chair and Coordinate Conferences:
  • Co-ordinate and chair initial conferences and review conferences held under SeftonLSCB Safeguarding Procedures.
  • Co-ordinate and chair statutory child reviews on children looked after by the Local Authority.
  • Ensure all conferences and child care review minutes are of a high standard, accurate, and reflective of the discussions and decisions made.
  • Actively involve children and their families in the decision-making process, ensuring their views and wishes are fully considered.
• Promote Best Practice:
  • Champion the highest possible standards of professional practice in child protection and care proceedings.
  • Promote a multi-agency approach to decision-making, ensuring effective communication and collaboration between all professionals involved.
  • Provide constructive challenge and support to agencies to ensure they are meeting their statutory duties and best practice guidelines.
• Deputise for Resource Manager:
  • Deputise for the Resource Manager, Safeguarding, in matters relating to Safeguarding and Child Protection and Children Looked After by the Local Authority as required.
  • Provide expert advice and guidance to the Local Authority and other agencies on child protection and care proceedings.
• Other Duties:
  • Undertake any other relevant duties as may be reasonably required by the Local Authority.
  • Maintain confidentiality and comply with data protection regulations at all times.

Essential Criteria:

• Significant experience of chairing Child Protection Conferences and/or Child Care Reviews.
• In-depth knowledge of relevant legislation, guidance, and procedures, including the Children Act 1989, the Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations 2010, and Working Together to Safeguard Children.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with children, families, and professionals.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Degree or equivalent professional qualification in a relevant field (e.g., social work, law).