Managing Allegations

Managing allegations against people who work with children & the role of the Local Authority Designated Officer

The framework for managing allegations is set out in Appendix 5 of  Working Together to Safeguard Children (2010) and Safeguarding Children and Safer Recruitment in Education (2007).  The framework applies to all  who work  with children and young people, including those who work in a voluntary capacity. It also covers a  wider range of allegations than child protection, including  cases in which it is alleged that a person who works with children has:

• behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed, a child

• possibly committed a criminal offence against, or related to, a child

• behaved in a way that indicates s/he is unsuitable to work with  

  children.

It is essential that any allegation of abuse made against a person is dealt with consistently, fairly, quickly and in a way that provides effective protection for the child and at the same time supports the person who is the subject of the allegation.

An integral part of the framework for managing allegations against staff  is the role of the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO). The LADO is  responsible for the management and oversight of individual cases and must  be informed of all allegations or concerns relating to staff or volunteers that fit the criteria above.

The LADO will provide advice and guidance to any agency or employer providing services for children. Where necessary they will liaise with Children’s Social Care and other agencies, monitor the progress of cases and work to ensure that all allegations  are dealt with appropriately. 

Hampshire County Council has two LADOs, Barbara Piddington & Eric Skates, based in the Safeguarding Unit. The LADOs cover separate districts of the county, but each will cover for the other during periods of leave or absence.

Barbara Piddington covers:- East Hampshire, Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Hart and Rushmore.

Eric Skates covers:- Basingstoke, Eastleigh, New Forest, Test Valley and Winchester.

The LADOs can be contacted on telephone number:-  01962 876364.

If appropriate you may be asked to complete a LADO referral form as a method of making a written referral.

Accordingly, all safeguarding allegations or concerns about a member of staff or volunteer should be discussed with Barbara Piddington or Eric Skates in the first instance who will liaise, as necessary, with social care and the police.

LADOs also have a wider safeguarding remit and are accountable to Head of the Children’s Services Safeguarding Unit.

 Managing Allegation Guidance