Independent Reviewing Officer
Job Summary
Working Pattern:
Full time
Advert Start Date:
19/07/2018
Advert End Date:
Closed for applications on 01/08/2018 23:59
Salary:
Grade L - £39,002 - £41,846 + 7.5% recruitment and retention payment
Job Category:
Social Care - Children Service
Employment Location:
Civic Centre
Further Information
Independent Reviewing Officer and Child Protection Conference Chair (Grade L)
We are seeking to appoint two Independent Reviewing Officers to the Safeguarding Children Unit.
Our core business is to manage the conference and reviewing service and ensure best practice through the engagement of children and their families and effective partnership working. The role involves the chairing of child protection conferences and reviews of looked after children, including children with disabilities who have periods of respite care away from home. It includes promoting the involvement of children and families in the conference and review process making sure their views are fully represented in planning and decision making. In addition we chair secure accommodation reviews and reviews of private fostering placements. Opportunities exist to identify training needs and become involved in the delivery of the LSCB training programme and the work of subgroups and working groups of the Gateshead Local Safeguarding Children Board. Quality standards and auditing are important components of the role including advising on planning and decision making. Encouragement is also given to develop areas of special interest.
It's an exciting time in Gateshead. We are investing in our IRO team ensuring that caseloads are manageable and support is available to allow us to provide the best possible service for our children and families. On going support will be provided by the Principal Independent Reviewing Officer and an experienced team of Independent Reviewing Officers, Operational Team Manager and Business Support. You will receive ongoing personal development through regular supervision and Appraisal & Development which is part of the Council's annual cycle of planning and performance management.
You will need to have an appropriate professional social work qualification e.g. Degree in Social Work or CQSW, Diploma Social Work and HCPC registration and must be 5 years post qualified with some managerial/supervisory experience.
You should have substantial and demonstrable experience as a Senior Practitioner or Team Manager in Children and Families work including undertaking multi agency interagency working, chairing meetings of a challenging nature. Experience of communicating effectively with children and young people and have confidence and ability to work constructively with senior managers by offering a critical perspective and appropriate challenge.
In addition you will have an in depth knowledge of current children's legislation and practice , Working Together 2015, the IRO handbook and experience of undertaking risk assessments, core assessments and care planning processes.
You should also have an in depth knowledge of The Children Act 2004, The Children Act 1989 Volume 2 Care Planning Placement and Case Review including regulations and guidance. Risk assessment evidence based practice and outcome focussed work.
Knowledge of current practice issues, policies, and procedures in relation to looked after children and safeguarding children is essential. Research information and knowledge of key organisations and their roles and responsibilities in relation to child protection and looked after children is also essential.
You must also have a current driving licence and access to a car, or means to mobility support.
If successful you will have to apply for an enhanced Disclosure.
Online applications only at www.gateshead.gov.uk
Please note
This job is closed for applications.