If an allegation is made against an adult who works with children, or there are concerns regarding an adult’s behaviour, which suggests they may not be suitable to be employed in the children’s workforce, then the employer should contact the Local Authority Designated Officer
The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) works within Children's Services and the police where appropriate and gives advice and guidance to employers, organisations and other individuals who have concerns about the behaviour of an adult who works with children and young people. Included in this group are volunteers, agency staff and foster carers as well as people who are in a position of authority or trust and have regular contact with children, such as religious leaders, political figures or school governors. An adult does not have to be in regulated activity to be included in these procedures.
The LADO does not conduct investigations.
What the LADO Does
They:
- coordinate the safeguarding and investigative process in response to allegations made against people working with children
- provide advice/guidance to employers or voluntary organisations
- liaise with police and other agencies, including Ofsted and professional bodies such as the General Medical Council and the Teaching Regulatory Agency
- monitor the progress of referrals to ensure they are dealt with as quickly as possible, consistent with a thorough and fair process
- resolve any inter-agency issues
- collect strategic data and maintain a confidential database in relation to allegations
- disseminate learning from LADO enquiries through the children’s workforce
- ensure that measures are in place to prevent further harm or abuse, and where required, referrals are made to the appropriate social care team
To contact the LADO
Employers can contact the LADO for an initial consultation.
LADO service manager
Steve Hall: steve.hall@croydon.gov.uk
Telephone: 020 8726 6000 ext. 24334 Mobile: 07825 830328
LADO
Jane Rowe: jane.rowe@croydon.gov.uk
Telephone: 020 8726 6000 ext. 24817 Mobile: 07716 092630
Email: LADO@croydon.gov.uk
Address
4th Floor Bernard Weatherill House
8 Mint Walk
Croydon
CR0 1EA