At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead reviews for Care Experienced Children and safeguard their wellbeing through collaborative planning.
- Company: Join Bridgend, a progressive authority committed to transforming children's services.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, full training, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Welsh language skills are a plus; enjoy a supportive environment with growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to improving lives and shaping future generations.
- Qualifications: Registered Social Worker with at least three years in Children's Services and knowledge of relevant legislation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This is an exciting stage to join Bridgend which is recognised as an improved authority continuing to embed and sustain change. We are proud of the changes we have made and that people want to come and work with us. You will join a group of committed and enthusiastic professionals, who are working hard to transform our services.
You will actively contribute to the ongoing improvement of practice standards and development of skills across the Directorate. Bridgend Children's Social Care is embedding Signs of Safety Practice Model and your role as an IRO will be fundamental to supporting the continuation of this Social Work model both in Safeguarding work with families and in work with children who are Care Experienced. You will receive full training in how to use this model of working.
The team perform an essential role in the quality assurance process to ensure best outcomes for children. The role requires chairing statutory review meetings for all Care Experienced Children and Child Protection (safeguarding) conferences in person. You will work collaboratively with children, young people and their families to ensure plans are reviewed with robust oversight and coproduced in a meaningful way.
You will work closely with partner agencies, to facilitate sound, defensible decision making and effective planning. You will be fully aware of quality assurance frameworks and the need for continuous development of practice and the IRO role in supporting the Directorate in this matter.
As a registered Social Worker, you will need to have an embedded understanding of the Children Act 1989, the Social Services and Wellbeing Act 2014 and a knowledge and understanding of the role of the Independent Reviewing Officer, as required by the Adoption and Children Act 2002, and the IRO Standards, associated legislation and guidance, as well as at least three years' experience of working in Children's Services.
The ability to greet customers through the medium of Welsh is a requirement for this post. Protecting children, young people or adults at risk is a core responsibility of all council employees. An Enhanced with Children's Barred list criminal records check by the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) is a requirement for this post. The council's Hybrid Working Policy applies to this post. This provides a framework for establishing how you will undertake working hours between your home and the office.
Closing Date: 13 May 2026
Shortlisting Date: 21 May 2026
Interview Date: 03 June 2026
Independent Reviewing Officer - Child and Family employer: The Training Brokers Ltd
Contact Detail:
The Training Brokers Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Reviewing Officer - Child and Family
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field, especially those already working in children's services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to safeguarding and the Signs of Safety model. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for child welfare during interviews. Share specific examples from your experience that highlight your commitment to improving practice standards and working collaboratively with families.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates on our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Reviewing Officer - Child and Family
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 Services. We want to see how your past experiences have prepared you for this role and how you can contribute to our team.
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 focus on what really matters—your skills and passion for the role.
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. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Training Brokers Ltd
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Children Act 1989 and the Social Services and Wellbeing Act 2014. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you understand the framework within which you'll be working.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Signs of Safety
Since this role involves embedding the Signs of Safety Practice Model, it’s crucial to have a solid grasp of it. Research how it’s applied in practice and think about how you can contribute to its implementation in your role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your decision-making skills and ability to work collaboratively with families and partner agencies. Think of examples from your experience where you've successfully navigated complex situations.
✨Show Your Passion for Child Welfare
Demonstrate your commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people. Share your motivations for wanting to work in this field and how you plan to make a positive impact in the lives of Care Experienced Children.