Job Overview
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join Bury Council’s Children’s Services. This ongoing locum position offers a competitive £40.00 per hour and the flexibility of part-time or full-time working.
You will play a critical role in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of looked after children, ensuring care planning is robust, timely, outcome-focused, and fully compliant with statutory requirements. This is a high-impact role where your professional judgement, challenge, and leadership will directly influence children’s life chances.
Perks and Benefits
* Part Time / Full Time: Choose a working pattern that fits your lifestyle and commitments.
* Hourly Pay: Earn £40.00 per hour, giving you flexibility and control over your income.
* Professional Development: Access ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your career.
* Multi-Agency Working: Build strong professional networks across health, education, and partner agencies.
* Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a flexible role that supports a healthy balance between work and personal life.
* Meaningful Impact: Play a key role in improving outcomes for looked after children.
What You Will Do
* Chair statutory Looked After Children (LAC) reviews in line with legislation and Bury Council procedures.
* Ensure care plans are child-focused, outcome-driven, legally compliant, and promote permanence and wellbeing.
* Monitor and evaluate the local authority’s performance between reviews to ensure children’s needs are being met.
* Ensure the child’s wishes and feelings are central to all planning and decision-making.
* Provide independent oversight and professional challenge to drive high standards of practice.
* Use dispute resolution and escalation processes when necessary to safeguard children.
* Coordinate multi-agency participation in reviews, including health, education, and other professionals.
* Work closely with children, families, carers, and professionals to improve care planning and outcomes.
* Oversee care plans, permanence planning, placement stability, and quality of interventions.
* Maintain accurate and timely records and review documentation on the council’s system.
* Contribute to quality assurance, service improvement, and development across Children’s Services.
Qualifications & Registration (Essential)
* Degree or equivalent qualification in Social Work.
* Registered with Social Work England.
* Significant post-qualifying experience in Children’s Social Care.
Knowledge & Experience (Essential)
* Strong experience working with Looked After Children, Child Protection, and Permanence Planning.
* In-depth knowledge of the Children Act 1989 & 2004, IRO Handbook, and relevant regulations.
* Proven ability to chair complex meetings and work effectively in a multi-agency environment.
* Confidence in providing professional challenge and escalation when required.
Why Bury?
Bury offers a fantastic combination of strong community spirit, excellent transport links to Manchester, vibrant markets, and a great quality of life. It’s a brilliant place to develop your career while making a real difference to children and families.
Working with Sanctuary Personnel
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