SOCIAL CARE

Social workers have a central role within the local authorities' duty to promote, support and safeguard the wellbeing of all children in their area, and, in so far as is consistent with that duty, to promote the upbringing of children and their families by providing a range and level of services appropriate to children's wellbeing needs. 

The Local Authority has a duty to make enquires under section 47 of the Children Act 1989 if they 'have reasonable cause to suspect that a child is suffering or is likely to suffer, significant harm'. This enquiry is carried out by a social worker and at times a joint assessment takes place with other professionals such as the police. 

School can discuss concerns with duty social workers in the Children's Hub for further advice and support and are often asked to contribute to information in respect of the section 47 enquiry. 

LOCAL AUTHORITY DESIGNATED OFFICER (LADO)

If there are allegations against a member of staff, these must be reported immediately to the Headteacher. If the concern is in regard to the Headteacher then please contact the Chair of Governors/CEO of NLLT. Where necessary, the LADO must be contacted as soon as possible or within one working day in respect of all cases in which it is alleged that a person who works with children has allegedly:

• behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed a child
• possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child; or
• behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children

The LADO for Holley Park Academy and Sunderland LA is Together for Children

https://www.togetherforchildren.org.uk/article/21169/Designated-Officer

The LADO is responsible for:

• Providing advice, information and guidance to employers and voluntary organisations around allegations and concerns regarding paid and unpaid workers
• Managing and overseeing individual cases from all partner agencies
• Ensuring the child's voice is heard and that they are safeguarded
• Ensuring there is a consistent, fair and thorough process for all adults working with children and young people against whom an allegation is made
• Monitoring the progress of cases to ensure that they are dealt with as quickly as possible
• Recommending a referral and chairing the strategy meeting in cases where the allegation requires investigation by police and/or social care