At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead child protection conferences and review care plans for children in need.
- Company: Southend City Council, dedicated to improving outcomes for children.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; must be a driver with access to a car.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Recognised Social Work qualification and experience in local authority children's services.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Your new role Southend City Council are looking to appoint a full‑time, permanent Independent Reviewing Officer. The successful candidate will join a service committed to ensuring plans for children in our care are progressed without delay and lead to improved outcomes for children.
As the newly appointed IRO, you will chair child protection conferences in line with SET Child Protection Procedures and Working Together to Safeguard Children. You will review the cases of children who are looked after and take all necessary decisions to confirm the child’s care plan, raise any concerns about the progression of plans for children with the relevant social worker and manager, and, if needed, use formal escalation processes. You will also ensure that the post‑18 planning is in place. The IRO will support the council in meeting Ofsted requirements and may cover ICPCs due to the increased volume experienced in 2026.
Within this position, hybrid working opportunities are available; the hybrid days will depend on the needs of the team. You must be a driver with access to a car.
What you'll need to succeed
To be successful you must be able to work in the UK, have a recognised Social Work qualification and be registered with Social Work England. You must have statutory local authority children’s services experience, along with experience of improving outcomes for children who are being harmed, including those who experience domestic abuse and chronic neglect. You will need to be able to engage in a restorative manner with parents, carers and children so that they sense they are central to all aspects of planning, and to share expertise in the field of child protection with social workers, social work managers and partner agencies. You will have strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to organise and manage a varied workload.
What you'll get in return
Benefits include 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training and development opportunities. The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.
R2R103933 - Child in Need - Independent Reviewing Officer - Permanent in Southend-on-Sea employer: South End City Council
Southend City Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to improving the lives of children in our care. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture, we empower our Independent Reviewing Officers to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a healthy work-life balance. Join us in our mission to ensure every child receives the care and support they deserve, all within a vibrant community setting.
