Independent Reviewing Officer; IRO Sanctuary Personal

Social Worker - Adults Multi-Disciplinary Team

Job Title: Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)
Specialism: Children’s Social Work
Location: Harrow, London, UK
Salary: £39.04 – £45.20 per hour
Contract Type: Ongoing
Working Pattern: Part Time / Full Time (Flexible Hours Available)

We are seeking an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join Children’s Services in Harrow on an ongoing locum basis. This role offers a competitive hourly rate and flexible working arrangements, including varied start and finish times to support work-life balance.

As an IRO, you will provide independent oversight of care planning for Children Looked After, ensuring statutory duties are fulfilled and that each child’s voice remains central to planning and decision-making. You will play a key role in quality assurance, performance monitoring and continuous improvement across the service.

Care Planning & Review Oversight

Act as lead officer for reviews of Children Looked After

Chair statutory Children Looked After reviews and Child Protection conferences

Ensure care plans are timely, outcome-focused and reflective of each child’s individual needs

Monitor progress against agreed actions and statutory timescales

Quality Assurance & Practice Challenge

Monitor and evaluate practice standards across cases

Provide constructive challenge where practice falls below expected standards

Escalate concerns appropriately to senior management

Contribute to achieving local and national performance targets

Professional Advice & Service Improvement

Provide expert advice and guidance to managers and social care staff

Act as a consultant for best practice within Children’s Services

Apply current research and developmental initiatives to strengthen service delivery

Contribute to continuous improvement and quality assurance processes

Advocacy & Inclusive Practice

Ensure the child’s voice is heard and represented in all review processes

Promote culturally sensitive and inclusive approaches to care planning

Support positive outcomes for children from diverse backgrounds

Social Work England registration

Degree or equivalent qualification in Social Work

Significant post-qualifying experience within Children’s Social Work

Experience chairing reviews or conferences

Strong knowledge of statutory frameworks relating to Children Looked After and Child Protection

Ability to provide effective independent oversight and challenge

Excellent communication, analytical and organisational skills

Flexible part-time or full-time working arrangements

Competitive hourly rate

Flexible start and finish times

Opportunity to contribute at a strategic and quality assurance level

Supportive and collaborative team environment

Harrow is a diverse and well-connected London borough offering a strong sense of community and access to excellent local amenities. With green spaces, strong transport links into Central London and a vibrant cultural landscape, Harrow provides a balanced and engaging environment for professionals seeking both career development and quality of life.

Sanctuary Personnel is a trusted and award-winning recruitment agency with an Excellent rating on Trustpilot from over 1,000 reviews. We are committed to securing competitive rates and roles that align with your experience, skills and career goals.

When you work with Sanctuary Personnel, you will receive dedicated consultant support, transparent communication and ongoing guidance throughout your placement and beyond.