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- Tasks: Champion the needs of children in care and lead statutory reviews.
- Company: Join a supportive local authority focused on improving outcomes for children.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, welcome and retention payments, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Social Work qualification and 5 years' experience in children's social work.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with a focus on relational practice.
The predicted salary is between 52413 - 54495 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting for an Independent Reviewing Officer to join the Reviewing Service Team on a part-time basis.
Reward and support
- Between £52,413 - £54,495 per annum subject to experience
- £5,000 welcome payment (pro rata for part-time staff)
- £2,000 retention payment (pro rata for part-time staff)
- Up to £8,000 relocation package
- Flexible and agile working opportunities
- 25.5 days annual leave rising to 30.5 days after 5 years continuous service (pro rata for part-time staff)
- Option to purchase 10 days of additional leave per year (pro rata for part-time staff)
- Family friendly policies and benefits to help support you and your family
- Supportive and positive working environment with regular, robust supervision
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) that provides free, confidential counselling and advice for employees, available 24 hours a day, online and by telephone
- An in-house Occupational Health service
- Employee discount scheme
- Links to employee networks such as Prism (LGBT+) and the Young Employees Network
- Career development and qualification opportunities
- Access to our Social Work Academy
- Cycle to Work scheme (eligibility criteria and t&cs apply)
- Green Car Salary Sacrifice Scheme (eligibility criteria and t&cs apply)
Please note that all our welcome and retention payments are subject to terms and conditions as well as tax and national insurance deductions. Please note that our relocation policy is subject to terms and conditions.
About the team
You will be joining a stable team of lively, hardworking IRO. We know that to be effective we must hold the child at the centre of all we do and not shy away from the difficult conversations that may be necessary to bring about best outcomes for children. We seek as a service to fulfil our statutory responsibilities with a relational and systemic approach to practice recognising that respect, collaboration and authentic relationships facilitate opportunities for better outcomes for children. We have a culture of shared responsibility and shared learning. We value the expertise of each member of the service which collectively provides a rich environment for further strengthening and development of the service. We encourage reflective supervision at all levels and we will be able to offer you protected time to ensure it takes place on a regular basis.
About the role
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join our Reviewing Service and champion the needs of children in the care of Gloucestershire.
You will:
- Chair statutory reviews for children in care in line with IRO Regulations and national guidance
- Ensure that reviews are timely, child-centred, and delivered to a high professional standard
- Monitor the progress and quality of Care Plans, actively addressing any drift or delay
- Provide robust challenge and escalate concerns to senior management and CAFCASS as needed
- Ensure the meaningful involvement of children, young people, families, and carers
- Collaborate with professionals across agencies and support improvements to practice
- Promote equality and consider the individual needs of each child, including factors such as race, disability, religion, and identity
About you
You will have:
- Social Work England registration and a recognised Social Work qualification (e.g. DipSW, CQSW)
- At least 5 years post-qualifying experience in children's social work, including child protection and care proceedings
- Experience in management and/or supervision within a children's social work team
- Experience chairing complex meetings and managing conflict
- Strong understanding of legislation, permanence planning, safeguarding, and quality assurance
- Excellent communication, critical thinking, and record-keeping skills
- Experience with quality assurance systems
- A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel
How to apply
To apply, please visit our website via the button below. Interviews will be in person 27 February 2026. Please note that this will be the only day for interviews.
Independent Reviewing Officer. Job in Gloucester Education & Training Jobs employer: Gloucestershire County Council
Contact Detail:
Gloucestershire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Reviewing Officer. Job in Gloucester Education & Training Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Gloucestershire County Council and their values. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Independent Reviewing Officer and be ready to share specific examples from your past work.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even if the role is flexible, showing up in smart attire can make a great first impression. It shows that you respect the opportunity and are serious about the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It not only shows your appreciation but also keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Reviewing Officer. Job in Gloucester Education & Training Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of 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 past work in children's social work. We want to see how you've made a difference in previous roles, especially in challenging situations.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your writing is easy to read. This will help us see your key strengths quickly.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at Gloucestershire County Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gloucestershire County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest legislation and guidance related to children's social work. Familiarise yourself with IRO Regulations and be ready to discuss how you would ensure reviews are child-centred and timely.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in chairing complex meetings and managing conflict. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities of an Independent Reviewing Officer effectively.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Be ready to talk about how you’ve worked with various professionals across agencies in the past. Highlight your approach to promoting equality and considering individual needs, as this aligns with the role's focus on relational practice.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could include inquiries about the team culture or how they support professional development. It shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
