Job Title: Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) – Children's Services Location: Gateshead Council Hourly Rate: 34.45 Job Description: Gateshead Council is seeking a skilled and experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join the Children's Services team. The role focuses on ensuring that children in care receive high-quality, child-centred support and that their care plans meet their needs and promote positive outcomes. Key Responsibilities: Chair Looked After Children (LAC) reviews in accordance with statutory requirements Monitor and review care plans to ensure they are effective and in the child's best interests Ensure the voice of the child is heard and reflected in all decision-making Challenge and escalate concerns where practice or planning falls short of standards Work collaboratively with social workers, carers, families, and other professionals Maintain accurate records and contribute to service improvement initiatives Requirements: Qualified social worker registered with the relevant professional body Substantial experience in children's social care, particularly LAC services Strong understanding of child protection legislation and care planning Excellent communication, organisational, and analytical skills Ability to manage caseloads independently and meet deadlines Benefits: Competitive pay rate Supportive working environment Opportunities for professional development Randstad Care acts as an employment business when supplying temporary staff and as an employment agency when introducing candidates for permanent employment with a client. Randstad Care is an equal opportunities employer and decisions are made on merits alone. Did you know that Randstad Care have been awarded a place on the National Clinical Staffing Framework for the NHS? This means we will be able to bring you more opportunities within nursing & midwifery and clinical staffing Alert me to jobs like this