Job Title: Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) / Child Protection Conference Chair
Location: Telford and Wrekin, Shropshire
Hourly Rate: £38 per hour
About Telford and Wrekin Council:
Telford and Wrekin Council's Children's Services has been rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted, and is one of the few local authorities to retain this top rating. Our commitment to exceptional social work practice, strong leadership, and putting the voices of children and families at the heart of our service is unwavering. We are passionate about innovative social work and working alongside children and families to achieve the best possible outcomes.
The Opportunity:
Are you a highly experienced and meticulous social worker ready to play a critical role in safeguarding children and young people? Telford and Wrekin 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.
Act as a designated Child Protection Conference Chair, leading multi-agency meetings to formulate and review child protection plans.
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.
Significant post-qualifying experience in children's social work (typically 3+ years), 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 to Fahmida Ahmed at . For an informal discussion, please do not hesitate to contact Fahmida at 07441 927663.
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