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- Tasks: Lead safeguarding practices and manage allegations against professionals working with children.
- Company: Join a supportive local authority committed to child safety and community welfare.
- Benefits: Flexible 4-day work week, hybrid options, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for strategic leadership and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while shaping a high-impact safeguarding service.
- Qualifications: Professional qualification in Social Work and direct LADO experience required.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 52000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced safeguarding professional with a strong background in managing allegations and leading teams within Children’s Services? We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated individual to take on the role of Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) while also leading our Education Safeguarding Service.
About the Role
This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for ensuring robust safeguarding practices across the children’s workforce. You will act as the Council’s LADO, managing and overseeing all allegations made against professionals and volunteers who work with children. In addition, you will lead the Education Safeguarding Service, providing strategic direction and operational management to a team that includes the Child Protection Lead for Education (Deputy LADO) and the Domestic Abuse Lead for Education.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the Council’s LADO, managing and overseeing all allegations against individuals working with children
- Provide expert advice, guidance, and challenge to partner agencies in line with safeguarding procedures
- Lead and manage the Education Safeguarding Service, ensuring high-quality delivery and continuous improvement
- Supervise and support key roles including the Deputy LADO and Domestic Abuse Lead for Education
- Ensure compliance with statutory safeguarding guidance and local procedures
- Contribute to multi-agency safeguarding arrangements and partnerships
- Maintain accurate oversight, quality assurance, and reporting of allegations and outcomes
Qualifications & Professional Registration
- A recognised professional qualification in Social Work (e.g., BA / MA Social Work, DipSW, or equivalent)
- Current registration with Social Work England (or equivalent regulatory body if applicable)
- Evidence of continuous professional development in safeguarding and child protection
Essential Experience & Skills
- Significant experience within Children’s Services, including working at Team Manager level or above
- Substantial, demonstrable experience of undertaking the LADO / Designated Officer function is essential
- Please note: applications will only be considered from candidates with direct LADO experience. Experience solely as an IRO, Child Protection Chair, or similar roles is not sufficient for this post
- Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance, and best practice
- Experience of managing complex allegations against professionals and volunteers
- Demonstrable leadership and people management experience
- Ability to provide professional challenge and make defensible decisions in high-risk situations
- Excellent communication, partnership working, and influencing skills
What We Offer
- A strategic and influential leadership role within safeguarding
- The opportunity to shape and lead a high-impact service
- Flexible working pattern (4 days per week)
- A supportive and collaborative working environment
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
- Hybrid work (2 days in the office)
Local Authority Designated Officer employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Local Authority Designated Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the safeguarding field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of safeguarding legislation and best practices. Be ready to discuss your experience with managing allegations and leading teams, as these are key aspects of the LADO role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed complex situations in Children’s Services. This will help you stand out as a strong candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Local Authority Designated Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in safeguarding and managing allegations. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of LADO and Education Safeguarding Manager.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, don’t forget to emphasise your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in Children’s Services.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your qualifications and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest safeguarding legislation and best practices. Being able to discuss specific cases or scenarios where you've applied your knowledge will show that you're not just familiar with the theory, but also know how to implement it in real-life situations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a LADO, you'll be leading teams and managing complex situations. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in high-pressure environments. Highlight your ability to provide guidance and support while ensuring compliance with safeguarding procedures.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you'd handle specific allegations or safeguarding challenges. Think through potential scenarios and how you would approach them, demonstrating your decision-making process and ability to manage risk effectively.
✨Engage with Multi-Agency Collaboration
Since this role involves working with various partner agencies, be ready to discuss your experience in multi-agency settings. Share examples of how you've built relationships and collaborated with other professionals to enhance safeguarding practices.