Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) is the person who should be notified when there are concerns a professional or volunteer who works with children 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 they may pose a risk of harm to children;
- Behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.
- Behaved in a way in their personal life that raises safeguarding concerns. These concerns do not have to directly relate to a child.
- As a parent or carer, has a child that has become subject to child protection procedures
- Is closely associated with someone in their personal lives (eg partner, member of the family or other household member) who may present a risk of harm to child/ren for whom the member of staff is responsible in their employment/volunteering.
The LADO will provide advice and guidance on whether the allegation sits within the scope of the procedures. If the allegation does fall within the scope of the procedures, the LADO will oversee the management of the allegation, co-ordinate information sharing with the right people and monitor and track any investigations, with the aim to resolve it as quickly as possible.
The LADO liaises with organisations such as the police, other departments within the council such as social care, regulatory bodies such as Ofsted and professional bodies to ensure a thorough and fair process for all those involved.
For further information and to make a referral via the LADO, please go to https://www.newhamscp.org.uk/lado/
