Job Title: Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)
Location: Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Hourly Rate: £40 per hour
About Doncaster Council:
Doncaster Children's Services Trust is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people. We are dedicated to providing high-quality, child-centred care and support. Our IRO service is a key component of our safeguarding framework, ensuring that the voices of children in our care are heard and their needs are met.
The Opportunity:
Are you a highly experienced and skilled social work professional ready to take on a crucial role in safeguarding children? Doncaster Council is seeking a dedicated Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join our service. This is a vital position where you will provide independent oversight and challenge, ensuring the care plans for our looked after children are robust, child-centred, and lead to positive, lasting outcomes.
Key Responsibilities:
As an Independent Reviewing Officer, you will:
Independently chair statutory Looked After Reviews, ensuring the views and wishes of children and young people are central to all decision-making.
Rigorously monitor, scrutinise, and challenge the quality and effectiveness of children's care plans to prevent drift and delay.
Ensure the local authority fulfills its statutory duties and obligations in relation to children's cases.
Work collaboratively with social workers, foster carers, families, and other professionals, acting as a critical friend to ensure best practice.
Escalate concerns via the dispute resolution process when necessary to ensure the child's best interests are met.
Ensure children and young people are aware of their rights and entitlements, including access to advocacy services.
Maintain accurate and detailed records of all reviews and conferences.
What We Are Looking For:
A qualified Social Worker with current registration with Social Work England.
3 years post-qualifying experience in children's social work, with strong experience in safeguarding and looked after children's work.
Demonstrable experience of chairing complex multi-agency meetings, ideally as an IRO or Child Protection Conference Chair.
Expert knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory guidance, including the IRO Handbook and Working Together to Safeguard Children.
Exceptional analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making skills, with the ability to provide independent challenge.
Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging effectively and empathetically with children, families, and professionals at all levels.
The ability to work autonomously, manage a demanding caseload, and meet statutory timescales.
A valid UK driving license and access to a vehicle for work purposes.
How to Apply:
If you are an experienced and dedicated Social Worker with a passion for championing the rights of children in care, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your CV outlining your relevant experience and suitability for this role . For an informal discussion regarding the role, please do not hesitate to contact Fahmida Ahmed at 07441 927663.
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