An exciting opportunity has arisen to act as the Lead Designated Officer for the Local Authority on all matters relating to allegations made against those that work with children in order that the Local Authority can comply with the responsibilities and functions as set out in Working Together to Safeguard Children (DfE). You will work alongside a full time LADO as part of the Safeguarding and Quality Assurance Team.

You will need to have the ability to respond effectively and confidently to allegations made against professionals, volunteers and carers across the Children’s workforce ensuring that timescales are met in holding strategy meetings and investigation processes in accordance with the Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) Allegations Against Professionals, Volunteers and Carers. Therefore you must have a firm understanding of child protection and an understanding of employment law. You will have the confidence to offer challenge where appropriate and be able to support robust planning. You will be able to analyse and provide good and clear written reports and equally have a good oral presentation.  

What we need from you

• You will hold a professional recognised social work qualification.
• You must have at least 5 years post-qualification experience in a statutory child care setting.
• You must be able to chair formal meetings and demonstrate up to date knowledge of legislation, regulations and codes of practice relating to Child Protection and Children In Care.
• You will demonstrate an ability to critically analyse information, balance opposing views and interests whilst maintaining a child focus.
• You will demonstrate an ability to communicate with children and young people and their parents and have good inter-personal and written communication skills.
• Although not essential, you may have previous management/ supervisory experience in a statutory child care setting.
• Please note that due to the nature of this role it is a requirement of employment that an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is obtained for this post

What we will offer you:

A warm Sefton welcome

• A comprehensive induction programme
• Support from Team Manager and Service Manager
• Good quality, regular, reflective supervision
• Manageable caseloads
• Excellent training and development opportunities including a wide-ranging offer from our in-house workforce training and development unit as well as access to a number of external accredited opportunities
• Partnership with Research in Practice, providing access to online webinars, podcasts and materials linked to the latest research and policy updates to support your CPD and inform evidence-based reports
• 28 days annual leave rising to 33 days with 5 years continual service and 8 bank holidays
• Enhanced sick pay scheme, maternity/adoption leave pay and maternity support leave
• Opportunities for agile/flexible working  
• Access to free eye tests and where appropriate, contribution towards spectacles
• Occupational Health Service available to advise on work related health issues
• Commitment to supporting staff’s emotional and mental health with access to a free and confidential employee counselling service
• Discounted gym membership with all Active Sefton gyms
• Cycle to work scheme
• Salary sacrifice schemes including childcare vouchers
• Access to local benefits and discounts on products and services
• Relocation package as appropriate

Equal Opportunities

Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody’s identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential. We are always open to learning and growing as an organisation, and we welcome new ideas and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and inclusion.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.

GUARANTEED INTERVIEW SCHEME

Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview.

If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.