Role of the Local Authority Designated Officer

The LADO must be contacted within one working day in respect of all cases in which it is alleged that a person who works with children has:

• behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed a child
• possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child
• behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children.

There may be several strands to be considered in relation to an allegation:

• A police investigation of a possible criminal offence.
• Enquiries and assessment by Children’s Social Care about whether a child is in need of protection or support services.
• Consideration by an employer of any disciplinary action in respect of the individual.

The LADO should also be notified when, any person who works or volunteers with children:

• Has behaved in a way in their personal life that raises safeguarding concerns. These concerns do not have to directly relate to a child but could, for example, include arrest for possession of a weapon.
• As a parent or carer, has become subject to child protection procedures.
• Is closely associated with someone in their personal lives (e.g. partner, member of the family or other household member) who may present a risk of harm to child/ren for whom the member of staff is responsible in their employment/volunteering.

When an allegation is made against an employee or volunteer it is the responsibility of the employer/organisation to notify the individual. The employer is also responsible for keeping them updated in relation to any investigation process and possible outcomes.

A guide for City of London Corporation staff and volunteers who work with children who have had a concern or allegation made against them is available to download. 

 

Members of the public cannot make referrals directly to the LADO. If you have any concerns in relation to an employee or volunteer you should put them in writing to the person’s employer/organisation. If you believe a crime has been committed you can also make a report to the police.

If you have already raised your concern with the employer, an investigation is ongoing and the LADO is involved; the LADO cannot provide you with any further information. The employer must update you on their investigation and outcome.

If you are unhappy with the outcome or how the employer completed an investigation, you should address this through their internal complaints procedure.

If you have a concern that is not in relation to an individual worker or volunteer but an organisation as a whole, you should direct this to a wider governing body if one exists. For example Ofsted or NHS Commissioning Trust.

The LADO is responsible for:

• providing advice, information and guidance to employers and voluntary organisations around allegations and concerns regarding paid and unpaid workers
• managing and overseeing individual cases from all partner agencies.
• ensuring the child’s voice is heard and that they are safeguarded
• ensuring there is a consistent, fair and thorough process for all adults working with children and young people against whom an allegation is made
• monitoring the progress of cases to ensure they are dealt with as quickly as possible

The LADO is available to discuss any concerns and to assist you in deciding whether you need to make a referral and/or take any immediate management action to protect a child.