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- Tasks: Lead and chair meetings to ensure vulnerable children's needs are met effectively.
- Company: Join a 'Good' rated Local Authority dedicated to safeguarding children.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, excellent training, and perks like gym discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a Social Work Qualification and experience at Team Manager or Advanced Practitioner level.
- Other info: This role requires an enhanced DBS check and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.
The predicted salary is between 42600 - 42800 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job reference: REQ00000018418
Date posted: 27/05/2025
Application closing date: 22/06/2025
Location: Kendal
Salary: £49,764.00 to £50,788.00
Contractual hours: 37
Basis: Full time
About this opportunity:
All children in Westmorland and Furness deserve the best start in life and we’re looking for the right people to help us make that happen. We are looking for an experienced person to join us as an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO). As an IRO, you will have a key role within Children’s Services. The IRO is at the centre of safeguarding children; this position is foremost in providing a leadership role to improve outcomes and provide quality assurance for Westmorland and Furness’ most vulnerable children.
The Role:
In this role, you will be ensuring that children in need of protection and those cared for by the Local Authority have the right plans in place to meet their identified needs. The role will involve:
- Visiting cared for children and recording their views
- Chairing Cared For Children’s Reviews
- Chairing Child Protection Conferences
- Chairing Missing from Home Stage 2 meetings
- Leading complex strategy meetings (such as suspected Fabricated or Induced Illness)
You will also be providing continuity and effective oversight of individual children’s plans, whilst ensuring the child’s views and wishes are being heard and acted on, ensuring children’s assessed needs are being met in a timely manner. One of the key aspects of the role is quality assurance; the IRO scrutinises and holds to account the performance of the Local Authority, which may result in either informal or formal challenge in the child’s best interests.
Who we are looking for:
We are looking for someone who has expert knowledge of child protection procedures, childcare practice, and care planning legislation, as well as being up to date with relevant research. Applicants will need to have the ability to chair difficult and challenging meetings and influence others to ensure the best outcomes are achieved for children. A Social Work Qualification and registration with Social Work England is essential, as is the ability to work independently whilst delivering service priorities. Applicants should ideally have worked at either Team Manager or Advanced Practitioner level. Knowledge and experience of using the Signs of Safety framework would be an advantage.
What can we offer you:
- Opportunity to work for an Ofsted rated ‘Good’ Local Authority
- Competitive rates of pay
- Excellent training and career development opportunities
- Opportunity to join the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Boost your pension with Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contributions
- Various perks and discounts schemes
This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and requires an enhanced DBS check with a Children’s Barred List check. Please note this role involves working in regulated activity with children.
Safer Recruitment:
At Westmorland and Furness Council, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect all employees, volunteers and the Externally Provided Workforce (EPWs) to share this commitment.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:
Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences. As a Disability Confident Employer, disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria of this job are guaranteed an interview.
Independent Reviewing Officer WMF2073e employer: The Cumbria County Council
Contact Detail:
The Cumbria County Council Recruiting Team
Richard.Lofthouse@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Reviewing Officer WMF2073e
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Signs of Safety framework, as it's a key practice model used in this role. Understanding how to empower families through this approach will give you an edge during discussions and interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Reach out to Richard Lofthouse for an informal chat about the role. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in chairing challenging meetings. Think of specific examples where you've influenced outcomes positively, as this is a crucial part of the IRO role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current child protection legislation and best practices. Being knowledgeable about recent changes or case studies can demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding children and your readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Reviewing Officer WMF2073e
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of an Independent Reviewing Officer. Familiarise yourself with child protection procedures and care planning legislation to demonstrate your expertise in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in your CV, especially any roles where you've chaired meetings or worked with vulnerable children. Use specific examples that showcase your ability to influence outcomes and ensure children's needs are met.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for safeguarding children and your commitment to improving their outcomes. Mention your knowledge of the Signs of Safety framework if applicable, and explain how your skills align with the job requirements.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cumbria County Council
✨Know Your Child Protection Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the latest child protection procedures and care planning legislation. Being able to discuss these confidently will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to safeguarding children.
✨Prepare for Challenging Scenarios
Anticipate questions about how you would handle difficult meetings or challenging situations. Think of examples from your past experience where you successfully influenced outcomes in the best interest of children.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Independent Reviewing Officer, you'll need to lead effectively. Be ready to share instances where you've taken charge, chaired meetings, or provided oversight that improved outcomes for vulnerable children.
✨Understand the Signs of Safety Framework
If you have experience with the Signs of Safety framework, be prepared to discuss how you've used it to empower families. If not, research it beforehand to show your willingness to learn and adapt to their practices.
