Independent Reviewing Officer

1
12 September 2019
Permanent
18.5
County Wide
Children and Families
23 September 2019

The Independent Chair Service (ICS) provides independent reviewing of the care plans of looked after children, child protection plans and plans for children in need subject to supervision orders. The ICS is located in the Safeguarding, Assurance and Improvement group in Nottinghamshire County Council. The service group also includes strategic safeguarding responsibilities including the Local Authority Designated Officer function, missing children, safeguarding children in education and child sexual exploitation.

You will be part of a team of Independent Reviewing Officers (IROs) who have responsibility for the coordination and chairing of Looked after Children reviews across the county and will fulfil the role of an IRO as outlined in national guidance. A professional social work qualification is essential, together with a minimum of five years post-qualification experience and experience of providing social work supervision and support. You will be able to demonstrate experience of chairing complex meetings and have the confidence and ability to work constructively with senior managers. You must have a thorough understanding of the legal framework, regulations and guidance relating to looked after children/care leavers. You will monitor the performance of the Local Authority’s function as a corporate parent and therefore will need the ability to demonstrate independence and challenge. You will need to be competent in communicating with children and ensuring that the voice of the child is promoted. You will need to be able to demonstrate knowledge in relation to representation and complaints processes/procedures and be able to define high quality practice standards, in order to improve outcomes for looked after children. The role requires the ability to problem solve and organise/manage your own time effectively under pressure. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial. You will receive regular supervision and be part of a supportive team.

Contact person for queries: Izzy Martin, Service Manager, Independent Chair Service - 0115 8041004 or 07833 700179

Appointment to this post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Disabled applicants who meet the essential shortlisting requirements will be guaranteed an interview. A job share scheme is available for all full-time posts: both permanent and temporary, unless otherwise stated. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff to share this commitment and undergo appropriate checks.

Nottinghamshire County Council strives to ensure that it goes beyond the requirements of the Equalities Act and prides itself on being accredited as a Disability Confident Leader Organisation.

Therefore, the County Council encourages applications from all, irrespective of gender, marital status, disability, race, religion, belief, pregnancy and maternity status, age or sexual orientation.

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This vacancy is closed to applications.