Independant Reviewing Officer

Job Description Directorate - Children and Young People’s Services

Permanent, Full Time, 37 hours per week

An opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated and experienced professional to join our Children’s Services team as an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO). This pivotal role is central to ensuring that the Local Authority fulfils its statutory responsibilities towards Children in Care, and that care planning is both effective and child‑centred.

The successful candidate will be responsible for chairing statutory reviews for Children in Care, ensuring that care plans are robust and child‑centred, and will: provide independent oversight, scrutinise the Local Authority’s performance related to care planning and safeguarding, and offer constructive challenge where necessary to uphold the child’s best interests. The post holder will also ensure full compliance with statutory guidance outlined in the IRO Handbook and relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989.

• Chair statutory reviews in accordance with legal and procedural requirements.
• Monitor the progress and quality of care planning and decision‑making.
• Escalate concerns and challenge poor practice in a restorative and solution‑focused manner.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of reviews and decisions.
• Promote multi‑agency collaboration to support positive outcomes for children.