Job Description
3 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• Shropshire Council is seeking an experienced Children’s Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) / Independent Chair (IC) on a temporary contract (3 months, £38/hour, 37 hours/week).
• The role is primarily home-based, with occasional attendance at ICPCs and team meetings in Shropshire.
• The successful candidate will manage Child Looked After Reviews, ICPCs, RCPCs, and quality assurance in line with statutory requirements.
• This is an urgent requirement with a start within 2 weeks.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Act as Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) and Independent Chair (IC) for Children’s Looked After and Child Protection cases.
• Conduct Initial Child Protection Conferences (ICPCs) and Review Child Protection Conferences (RCPCs).
• Complete Child Looked After Reviews and midpoint reviews.
• Undertake quality assurance activities in line with statutory guidance (e.g., RAG ratings, DfE sheets).
• Maintain accurate records and reports in line with Council policies and statutory requirements.
• Liaise with social workers, carers, children, and other stakeholders to ensure compliance and best outcomes.
• Attend monthly team meetings and periodic in-person conferences as required.
Skills/Experience:
• Minimum 3 years’ experience as both IRO and Independent Chair.
• Strong knowledge of Child Protection legislation, procedures, and statutory guidance.
• Experience in Looked After Children (LAC) processes and review frameworks.
• Ability to complete ICPCs, RCPCs, and CLA reviews accurately and efficiently.
• Strong quality assurance and report writing skills.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and interpersonal skills.
• IT literate with experience in case management systems and DfE reporting.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and prioritise tasks.
Additional Information:
• Contract: 3 months (09/02/2026 – 09/05/2026).
• Hours: 37 per week, 09:00–17:30.
• Rate: £38 per hour (Umbrella).
• Location: Home-based with occasional office attendance at Guild Hall, Shropshire.
• Must be available to start within 2 weeks of application.
Requirements
• Minimum 3 years’ experience as both IRO and Independent Chair. • Strong knowledge of Child Protection legislation, procedures, and statutory guidance. • Experience in Looked After Children (LAC) processes and review frameworks. • Ability to complete ICPCs, RCPCs, and CLA reviews accurately and efficiently. • Strong quality assurance and report writing skills. • Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and interpersonal skills. • IT literate with experience in case management systems and DfE reporting. • Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and prioritise tasks.