Independent Reviewing Officer – Dual Role

Could you be the independent voice that helps shape safer, better futures for vulnerable children? We want to hear from you!

The Independent Reviewing Officer – Dual Role plays an important role in ensuring that children who are subject to Child Protection Plans or are in care have their plans reviewed regularly and effectively. The post holder chairs Child Protection Conferences and statutory review meetings, providing independent oversight and quality assurance to make sure plans remain focused on the child’s needs and outcomes.

This role requires a qualified social worker registered with Social Work England, with significant experience within children’s services.

The people we are looking for in this vital position will have:

• Relevant professional Social Work qualification and registered with the professional regulatory body.
• Ability to build sound and productive working relationships with families, colleagues and partners.
• Ability to and experience of chairing complex meetings, evaluating information and making clear decisions.
• Knowledge of national guidance and Child Protection and Safeguarding Procedures.
• Significant recent experience of working in the field of Child Protection and children who are Looked After.

Please download the job description and person specification for more information.

To apply for this role, please follow the ‘Apply Now’ button above and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will be using your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.

For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page and our statement on the use of AI.

Interviews will take place in person on 18 June in Eastbourne.

Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details.

We warmly welcome applications from all sections of the community. We but particularly encourage those from group that are underrepresented in our current workforce:

Black and ethnic minority backgrounds, those who are disabled, men and those who identify as LGBTQ+. We are working towards recruiting a workforce that reflects our community because we recognise the unique skills, experience and perspective that each individual brings.

Join us in making a real difference to vulnerable children’s lives by leading vital safeguarding reviews and ensuring every child’s voice and future remains at the heart of decision making.

In response to the Government’s Families First social care reforms, including the development of Multi-Agency Child Protection Teams and the Lead Child Protection Practitioner role, East Sussex is reviewing its current combined Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) and Child Protection Conference Chair function to ensure alignment with the evolving national framework.

For an informal discussion about this role please contact either Sue McGlynn via [email protected] or Dawn Price via [email protected]

For flexible working, choose East Sussex!

“East Sussex is a very good employer. You’re able to work flexibly around childcare and caring responsibilities and that’s really helpful.” Charlotte, Social Worker

Additional Information

This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau). For further information about what is required in this process please go to https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record. Please note that we require evidence of an overseas police check if you have lived or worked abroad.

Your starting salary will be pro rata if the above position is part-time or term-time only.

If you require sponsorship to work in the UK please let the hiring manager know this in your application so we can check eligibility for sponsorship for the role. For further information please go to https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas

If you require any reasonable adjustments, due to disability, to enable you to participate fully in the process please contact the hiring manager on the contact details above.