Independent Reviewing Officer

As an Independent Reviewing Officer , you’ll play a vital role in improving the lives of vulnerable children and young people. You’ll lead statutory reviews for children in care and chair Child Protection Conferences (CPCs), ensuring every child has a clear, robust plan that supports their safety, stability and long‑term wellbeing. Working independently, you’ll champion high standards across Children’s Services, driving quality through strong oversight, constructive challenge and effective partnership working.

Using your knowledge of current legislation and statutory guidance, you’ll ensure care plans are timely and truly focused on the needs of each child. Here’s what one of our team members has to say: “We are a team that cares — about children, about families, and about each other. In Hampshire’s Independent Reviewing Service, you’ll be supported, trusted, and empowered to work for the children who need it most.”

What you’ll do:

Chair Child Protection Conferences across Hampshire, bringing professionals together to make well‑informed, child‑centred decisions. Lead and oversee statutory reviews for children in care, working collaboratively with foster carers, residential workers, social workers and families. Monitor the implementation of care plans and child protection plans, ensuring needs and risk are well managed and actions are progressing in the child’s best interests. Promote excellent care planning and safeguarding practice, ensuring compliance with regulations, legislation, policies and procedures.

Provide constructive professional challenge and feedback, supporting continuous improvement across the service. Due to the nature of the role and where children may be placed, you’ll also travel to attend in‑person meetings and complete reviews across the country when required.

What we’re looking for:

Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England. Relevant leadership experience in children’s social care, including providing social work supervision and support. Strong knowledge of relevant children’s legislation relating to Children Looked After and Child Protection procedures. Able to chair multi-agency meetings , assess risks and make informed decisions in complex situations. Confident with offering constructive feedback and a critical, reflecting perspective based on legislation and best practice.

Able to work flexibly to meet the needs of children and young people. Why join us? Make a real difference to the lives of children and young people in care, knowing that your efforts can create a lasting impact and enhance their quality of life . Work in a collaborative, supportive environment with opportunities for professional development . Enjoy flexible working options , including a 9-day fortnight and hybrid arrangements to support your work-life balance.

Access to Health Assured's comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme to support your physical and mental wellbeing, including 24/7 telephone support, a suite of online resources, and legal and financial advice. Competitive benefits package , including generous annual leave entitlement, occupational sick pay, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme. To learn more about this role, please review our Candidate Pack available on our website.

Please click on the Apply button for details. Applicants can expect to hear from us within two weeks of the advertised closing date.

Please note:

We are unable to offer sponsorship for this role and therefore it is essential that you already have the right to work in the UK. Other roles you may have experience of may include:
Children’s Social Work Team Manager, Children’s Social Services Manager, Case Manager, Senior Social Worker, Assistant Team Manager.