Local Authority Designated Officer

Job Details

Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) & Education Safeguarding Manager

(4 days per week)

Are you an experienced safeguarding professional with a strong background in managing allegations and leading teams within Children’s Services? We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated individual to take on the role of Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) while also leading our Education Safeguarding Service.

About the Role

This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for ensuring robust safeguarding practices across the children’s workforce. You will act as the Council’s LADO, managing and overseeing all allegations made against professionals and volunteers who work with children.

In addition, you will lead the Education Safeguarding Service, providing strategic direction and operational management to a team that includes the Child Protection Lead for Education (Deputy LADO) and the Domestic Abuse Lead for Education.

Key Responsibilities

  • Act as the Council’s LADO, managing and overseeing all allegations against individuals working with children
  • Provide expert advice, guidance, and challenge to partner agencies in line with safeguarding procedures
  • Lead and manage the Education Safeguarding Service, ensuring high-quality delivery and continuous improvement
  • Supervise and support key roles including the Deputy LADO and Domestic Abuse Lead for Education
  • Ensure compliance with statutory safeguarding guidance and local procedures
  • Contribute to multi-agency safeguarding arrangements and partnerships
  • Maintain accurate oversight, quality assurance, and reporting of allegations and outcomes

About You

Qualifications & Professional Registration

  • A recognised professional qualification in Social Work (e.g., BA / MA Social Work, DipSW, or equivalent)
  • Current registration with Social Work England (or equivalent regulatory body if applicable)
  • Evidence of continuous professional development in safeguarding and child protection

Essential Experience & Skills

  • Significant experience within Children’s Services, including working at Team Manager level or above
  • Substantial, demonstrable experience of undertaking the LADO / Designated Officer function is essential
  • Please note: applications will only be considered from candidates with direct LADO experience. Experience solely as an IRO, Child Protection Chair, or similar roles is not sufficient for this post
  • Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance, and best practice
  • Experience of managing complex allegations against professionals and volunteers
  • Demonstrable leadership and people management experience
  • Ability to provide professional challenge and make defensible decisions in high-risk situations
  • Excellent communication, partnership working, and influencing skills

What We Offer

  • A strategic and influential leadership role within safeguarding
  • The opportunity to shape and lead a high-impact service
  • Flexible working pattern (4 days per week)
  • A supportive and collaborative working environment
  • Ongoing professional development opportunities
  • Hybrid work (2 days in the office)