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Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) – Children’s Social Care
Location: Tameside
Pay Rate: £40.00 per hour
Contract Length: Initial 3 months (high likelihood of extension)
Working Arrangements: In-person reviews (not virtual), travel to placements required

Tameside Council is seeking an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to play a pivotal role in safeguarding and promoting the well-being of their cared for children. This role is integral in ensuring that children and young people in care receive the best possible support, oversight, and advocacy.

Key Responsibilities:
? Chairing Cared-for Reviews: Facilitate and lead statutory reviews for looked after children, ensuring their care plans meet their needs and comply with legal requirements. Reviews are conducted in person at the child’s placement.
? Quality Assurance & Auditing: Conduct practice impact reviews (audits) to assess the effectiveness of care planning, social work interventions, and multi-agency working.
? Child-focused Case Oversight: Undertake regular IRO visits to children and young people to ensure their voices are heard, and complete midpoint reviews to track progress.
? Caseload Management: Initially take on a caseload of approximately 60 children/young people. Due to prior inconsistencies in case management, there will be a significant need to reorganise and bring stability to the caseload. Over time, this caseload will increase to align with other IROs (typically around 85).
? Multi-Agency Collaboration: Work closely with social workers, carers, families, and partner agencies to ensure children’s plans are effective, meet their best interests, and comply with statutory guidance.
? Challenge and Escalation: Where necessary, challenge poor practice, escalate concerns, and advocate for improved outcomes for children in care.

Essential Requirements:
✅ Substantial experience as a Team Manager in Children’s Social Care and/or previous experience as an IRO
✅ Expert knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory guidance related to looked after children (Children Act 1989, IRO Handbook, Care Planning Regulations)
✅ Exceptional organisational and workload management skills to restructure and stabilise an inherited caseload
✅ Strong communication and advocacy skills to ensure children’s voices are central to decision making
✅ Ability to work independently and exercise professional judgment when reviewing and challenging care planning decisions

Interested? Call me on (phone number removed) or send your CV to (url removed)