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Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) / Conference Chair
Gateshead Council
Pay Rate: £34.45 per hour
Start Date: ASAP
Contract: Temporary

Gateshead Council is seeking an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer / Conference Chair to join its Children's Social Care team. This is a vital role supporting high standards in care planning and child protection.

Key Responsibilities

As an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO):

• Oversee and scrutinise care planning for Children in Our Care, including those in fostering, adoption, and unaccompanied asylum-seeking situations.

• Chair Children in Our Care reviews and ensure their views are central to decision-making.

• Build strong, meaningful relationships with children and young people.

• Promote best outcomes by holding services and partner agencies to account.

• Challenge practice where necessary and ensure all activity is well-documented and contributes to a child's life story.

• Support and model trauma-informed, relationship-based practice across the service.

As a Conference Chair:

• Chair Child Protection Conferences in line with legislation and Gateshead Safeguarding Partnership procedures.

• Ensure child protection plans are timely, robust, and clearly written.

• Monitor the effectiveness of plans between conferences.

• Challenge and escalate concerns where agencies fall short in their responsibilities.

• Produce high-quality, analytical records using Gateshead's IT systems.

Requirements

Essential:

• Social Work qualification and registration with Social Work England.

• Significant experience in Children's Social Care - particularly Child Protection and Looked After Children.

• Extensive knowledge of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and best practice models.

• Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills.

• Experience chairing complex meetings and managing professional challenge.

• Current driving licence and access to a vehicle (or suitable mobility support).

This is an opportunity to join a high-performing, supportive team and play a central role in delivering excellent outcomes for children and young people.

To apply or learn more, contact:
Adarsh Parihar
020 8152 8922
a.parihar@ edenbrownsynergy.com

Eden Brown Synergy is an equal opportunities employer.

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