Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)
Hertfordshire (County Hall, Hertford)
💷 £44.50 per hour
🕒 Contract | Hybrid Working
Hertfordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to be based at County Hall, Hertford. This is a vital role within Children's Services, supporting Looked After Children (CLA) and ensuring the highest standards of care planning and review.
Guidant Global is working in close partnership with Hertfordshire County Council, offering a strong and established relationship with the authority and ongoing support throughout the contract.
Working Arrangements
Hybrid role with face-to-face meetings across Hertfordshire and beyond. WFH is available for review write-ups, with office bases and touchdown points accessible. Attendance at the office is required when meetings are scheduled. Travel across the county is essential.
Key Responsibilities
Chair statutory reviews for Looked After Children, primarily face to face, including all associated administrative tasks. Independently scrutinise and monitor the progression of care plans in line with the Review of Children's Cases Regulations. Ensure the adolescent's voice is central to the review process and reflected within care planning. Identify and challenge any drift or delay in care planning, escalating concerns where appropriate. Ensure adolescents are offered an independent IRO visit at least annually. Participate in team meetings, duty systems and first review systems. Attend monthly supervision. Undertake audit work as required. Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners, independent advocates, interpreters and the Children's Participation Team.
Safeguarding & Escalation
The IRO plays a critical role in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Looked After Children. In line with DfES IRO Guidance, the postholder must inform senior managers of any issues impacting an adolescent's welfare, escalate concerns where care planning may breach an adolescent's human rights, and refer matters to CAFCASS where appropriate.
Essential Requirements
Qualified Social Worker (QSW). Minimum 5 years post-qualifying experience (PQE). Evidence of ongoing managerial and/or professional development. Strong experience of chairing complex meetings, managing and assessing complex cases, providing social work supervision, and working within multi-agency settings. In-depth knowledge of CLA legislation, regulations and best practice.
Why Apply via Guidant Global?
Established and trusted partnership with Hertfordshire County Council, dedicated consultant support, and access to high-quality, long-term local authority opportunities.