Qualified Social Worker – Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)
Location: North East
Pay Rate: £36 per hour
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Qualified Social Worker to take on the role of Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) in North East. As an IRO, you will play a critical role in chairing Initial and Review Child Protection Conferences, Looked After Children Reviews, and Foster Carer Annual Reviews. You’ll ensure that all meetings are held within statutory timescales and fully comply with legislative and policy guidelines. Your focus will be on promoting the safety, stability, and wellbeing of children and young people - ensuring their voices are heard and their rights protected.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Independently chair Child Protection Conferences, Looked After Reviews, and Foster Carer Annual Reviews in line with statutory requirements.
2. Monitor and ensure the effectiveness of care plans and safeguarding arrangements.
3. Provide high-level professional advice and guidance to social workers and partner agencies.
4. Build strong relationships with children, families, and professionals to support collaborative planning and review.
5. Promote a child-centred approach and ensure compliance with local procedures and national legislation.
6. Provide critical challenge where standards are not met, and escalate concerns where necessary.
What We’re Looking For:
7. Qualified Social Worker (degree or equivalent)
8. Registered with Social Work England
9. Minimum 5 years' post-qualification experience in children’s social care
10. Strong background in Child Protection, Court work, and Looked After Children
11. Proven experience in chairing multi-agency meetings involving children and families
12. In-depth understanding of child development, safeguarding, and care planning
13. Skilled in mediation, negotiation, and working across multi-agency teams
14. Confident, reflective, and committed to continuous service improvement
What Pertemps Offers You:
15. A dedicated consultant with access to roles nationwide
16. Fast, online registration process
17. Referral bonuses and incentive schemes
18. Ongoing compliance and admin support
19. Prompt and reliable weekly payroll
20. Access to a wide range of temporary and permanent roles
Easily commutable from: This role is ideal for candidates traveling from Redcar, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Guisborough, Brotton, Eston, Skelton, Loftus, Gateshead, Middlesbrough, Durham, Hartlepool, Scarborough, Hambleton, Stockton-on-Tees, Darlington, Whitby, Sunderland, Newcastle, and surrounding areas.
Looking for a different role?
We recruit across all areas of Qualified Social Work, including:
IRO, BIA, MASH, Children Looked After, Children in Need, Court Work, Youth Justice
Children’s Social Work, Adult Social Work
Team Manager, Assistant Team Manager, Service Manager, Head of Service
Not looking right now?
We offer generous referral bonuses – pass this on to a friend or colleague who might be interested.
Contact us today to apply or learn more.
Would you also like me to create social media posts (LinkedIn, X, Facebook) for this role as well?
Not looking right now? We also offer generous referral bonuses so please pass on to a colleague or friend who may be! Contact me for more information