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- Tasks: Lead Child Protection Conferences and ensure high standards for children in care.
- Company: Join Sandwell Children's Services, a vital player in safeguarding children's welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive rate of £38 per hour with hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your career in social work.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Social Worker with experience as an IRO or Conference Chair.
- Other info: Immediate start available; Randstad Care promotes equal opportunities.
Location: Oldbury, Sandwell
Rate: £38 per hour
Contract: Locum | Full-Time | Hybrid Working
Start Date: Immediate
Are you an experienced and confident Social Worker ready to take the next step in your career? Sandwell Children's Services is looking for a skilled Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) and Conference Chair to join their team in Oldbury on a hybrid working basis. This is a vital safeguarding role where you will provide independent oversight and ensure high standards of planning and review for children in care and children subject to child protection plans.
Key Responsibilities:
- Chair Child Protection Conferences and Looked After Children (LAC) Reviews
- Provide robust challenge and oversight to care planning and decision-making
- Ensure all reviews are child-focused, timely, and compliant with statutory guidance
- Maintain independence in upholding children's rights and promoting best outcomes
- Monitor performance and escalate concerns where drift or delay occurs
- Work collaboratively with internal teams and partner agencies
- Contribute to service development and quality assurance
Requirements:
- Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
- Previous experience as an IRO and/or Child Protection Conference Chair
- Strong understanding of Working Together to Safeguard Children and IRO Handbook
- Skilled in chairing complex meetings and managing sensitive discussions
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service
Independent Reviewing Officer/Child Protection Conference Chair employer: Randstad Care
Contact Detail:
Randstad Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Reviewing Officer/Child Protection Conference Chair
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key legislation and guidance related to child protection and independent reviewing. Understanding the nuances of the IRO Handbook and 'Working Together to Safeguard Children' will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of social work, particularly those who have experience as an IRO or Child Protection Conference Chair. Engaging in discussions about best practices and challenges can provide you with valuable insights and may even lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview scenarios by practising how you would handle complex meetings and sensitive discussions. Role-playing these situations with a colleague or mentor can help you articulate your approach and showcase your skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and issues in child protection and social work. Being knowledgeable about recent developments can set you apart from other candidates and show that you are proactive and engaged in your professional growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Reviewing Officer/Child Protection Conference Chair
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience as a Social Worker, particularly any roles where you have acted as an Independent Reviewing Officer or Child Protection Conference Chair. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in chairing meetings and managing sensitive discussions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying and how your background aligns with the key responsibilities of the role. Emphasise your understanding of child protection policies and your commitment to safeguarding children’s rights.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you mention your qualifications, including your Social Work England registration and any additional training related to child protection and safeguarding. This will reinforce your suitability for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application to eliminate any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Care
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of the responsibilities of an Independent Reviewing Officer and Child Protection Conference Chair. Familiarise yourself with key legislation and guidance, such as the IRO Handbook and Working Together to Safeguard Children.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to be asked about specific scenarios you might face in this role. Prepare examples from your past experience where you successfully chaired meetings or managed sensitive discussions, highlighting your decision-making skills and ability to challenge care planning effectively.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Skills
This role requires working closely with various internal teams and partner agencies. Be ready to discuss how you have previously collaborated with others to achieve positive outcomes for children, demonstrating your ability to work within a multi-agency framework.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Child-Centred Practice
Emphasise your dedication to upholding children's rights and ensuring their voices are heard. Share examples of how you have maintained a child-focused approach in your previous roles, and how you plan to continue this in your new position.
