Information for the Voluntary Sector:
Responding to Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers
Staff and Volunteers in community settings and in the voluntary sector are often well placed to identify and work effectively with vulnerable families, alongside statutory agencies to address safeguarding concerns. Unfortunately, some individuals who have intentions to harm children and young people attempt to gain access by working or volunteering in settings where they will have access to this population. One of the things that you can do to make your organisation safer for the children and young people you work with is to ensure that you know what the role of the Local Authority Designated Officer is and how to get in contact with them in case you ever have concerns about someone in your organisation’s suitability to work with children and young people.
Do you know what to do if you have someone in your organisation who has:
· behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child
· possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child
· behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates s/he is unsuitable to work with children
If you have any of these concerns about staff or volunteers your Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) has a statutory responsibility to provide advice about what action needs to be taken. The LADO is a Senior Social Care Manager who has expertise in Safeguarding Children.
How do I contact the LADO in Greenwich?
To speak to the Greenwich LADO, contact the Children Safeguarding Unit on 0208 921 4477 or email: .
What happens after I make a referral to the LADO?
The LADO will have a conversation with you about the situation. It will be decided if the situation meets the threshold for a LADO investigation.
What happens during a LADO investigation?
A meeting will be held with relevant professionals in attendance including representatives from your organisation. After information is shared at the meeting, there are three different potential strands of action that will be recommended:
· a police investigation of a possible criminal offence
· enquiries and assessment by children’s social care about whether a child is in need of protection or in need of services
· consideration by an employer of disciplinary action in respect of the individual
If after the initial evaluation between the LADO and the referring agency there is information to indicate that there are grounds for a child protection response, a strategy meeting is held to determine the approach and action needed. The LADO takes responsibility for organising the meeting.
What else will the LADO help with?
The LADO (or delegated officer) will also assist the referring agency with other considerations, including sharing information with parents, liaising with the police and other agencies, monitoring the progress of cases and ensuring that they are dealt within agreed timescales.
What if I am not sure if I need to refer?
Contact the LADO to discuss your situation, they are always happy to provide advice and information.
Contact the Greenwich LADO on: 0208 921 4477
or email: .
How do I get more information about how to make my Organisation safer for children and young people?
· See: www.safenetwork.org.uk for information and advice
· Speak with Chris Rees at GAVS
· contact the Greenwich Safeguarding Children Board Development Officer