At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead reviews and ensure children in care have tailored care plans for positive outcomes.
- Company: Join the City of Doncaster Council, dedicated to improving lives in our community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive leave, a generous pension scheme, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and supporting your professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working flexibly and collaboratively.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with 5+ years of experience in children's social care.
The predicted salary is between 54495 - 56724 £ per year.
Location: Civic Office, Waterdale, Doncaster, DN1 3BU
Contract and Salary: Grade 11, £54,495 – £56,724 Pro Rata (Pay award pending). Temporary Fixed Term, Part time, 22 hours per week. Flexible working arrangements: flexitime, ability to work remotely in other offices. Closing date: 14 June 2026.
Job Summary: We are seeking an Independent Reviewing Officer to ensure children in care receive robust care plans that meet their individual needs and achieve positive outcomes. The IRO is a critical friend who works with the team of social workers, managers and partner agencies to chair statutory reviews, monitor care planning, challenge practice, and promote the children's voice.
Responsibilities:
- Chair statutory reviews and monitor care planning.
- Challenge practice where necessary to ensure compliance with legislation and guidance.
- Escalate concern and practice challenge in a restorative way when standards are not met, influencing positive change.
- Promote the voice of the child and drive improvements across services.
Qualifications:
- Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
- A minimum of 5 years post qualifying experience of supervising staff at a Team Manager level.
- Significant experience in children’s social care, including care planning, statutory guidance and safeguarding.
Benefits: Competitive leave entitlement, generous local government pension scheme, wellbeing support and staff networks, development and training opportunities, staff discounts and benefits schemes.
Contact: For further details or an informal chat please contact Jo Mullard, IRO Service Manager, Marilyn Wilcox, Kerrie Undie.
EEO Statement: City of Doncaster Council is committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community and improving quality of life for all. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults. We are a Disability Confident employer and committed to a fully inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We offer interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and make reasonable adjustments as required.
IRO, Independent Reviewing Officer (CDC) in Doncaster employer: Doncaster City Council
The City of Doncaster Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the wellbeing of its staff and the community. With flexible working arrangements, competitive leave entitlements, and a commitment to professional development, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in children's lives. Join us in a role where your expertise as an Independent Reviewing Officer will be valued, and enjoy the benefits of working in a diverse and inclusive environment in the heart of Doncaster.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IRO, Independent Reviewing Officer (CDC) in Doncaster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in social care and let them know you're on the lookout for an IRO role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of current legislation and best practices in children's social care. We want you to be able to showcase your expertise and how you can drive improvements in care planning.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on roles that align with your values and experience. Check out our website for opportunities that resonate with you, especially those that allow you to promote the voice of the child.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace IRO, Independent Reviewing Officer (CDC) in Doncaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of an Independent Reviewing Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your qualifications; share specific examples of your work in children's social care. We want to see how you've made a difference in previous roles, especially in care planning and statutory reviews.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your points are easy to understand. This will help us see your strengths quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status easily.
How to prepare for a job interview at Doncaster City Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of an Independent Reviewing Officer. Brush up on care planning, statutory guidance, and how to effectively promote the voice of the child. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the role but genuinely passionate about making a difference.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific situations from your past experience where you’ve successfully challenged practice or influenced positive change. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you demonstrate your skills and experience in a clear and impactful way.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
As an IRO, you’ll be working closely with social workers, managers, and partner agencies. Be ready to discuss how you’ve effectively collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to chair meetings and facilitate discussions, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, the challenges they face, or how they measure success in the role. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.
