Description

Independent Reviewing Officer

Solihull’s Children in Care are looking for an Independent Reviewing Officer to join the team in our Safeguarding and Quality Assurance Unit.

We really value the role that IROs play in our lives, so we are looking for the best people for this important job. Our number one criteria is someone who listens to what we have to say, and makes sure that reviews are focused on us, in the way that best works for us. We want someone who invests in a relationship with us, not just someone who turns up for a quick chat before a review meeting, but someone who really cares and explains why decisions are made. We need you to make sure that our plans are followed through in the time that’s set and that you make sure we understand our plans and have our say.

If you are honest, gutsy, able to digest information well, trustworthy, and flexible in your approach then we want you to apply.

As an IRO you will share responsibilities for chairing Child Protection Conferences and carrying out Statutory Reviews of children who are Looked After by Solihull Council. Our managers will value your ability to contribute significantly to quality assurance measures. We will look to you to promote service improvements and you will have a crucial role in ensuring that practice standards are maintained for children and young people.

Your main focus will be to assure the quality of care planning and review for every child – making sure his or her wishes and feelings are fully considered. You will also support the Local Authority Designated Officer by managing referrals and overseeing enquiries in cases where there is concern that a person in a position of trust is presenting a risk to children.

We use Signs of Safety across our service and our IROs have been leaders by establishing the model’s use in conferences, gaining positive feedback from families and our partners as a result.

What we want you to bring to the role:

• A professional Social Work qualification and be registered with Social Work England

• At least 5 years post-qualifying experience of working with and developing effective relationships with children who are looked after or the subject of child protection plans, as per the regulations in the IRO handbook

• Sound knowledge of relevant childcare legislation and statutory guidance, including a clear understanding of ‘the IRO handbook,’ ‘Working Together’ and the ‘Care Planning Regulations’

• Experience of managing multi-agency meetings

• Good written and oral communication skills, including being able to analyse and evaluate information effectively and negotiate with colleagues

• An unrelenting focus on achieving great outcomes for children and young people, and a solutions-focused approach to achieving this.

In return, you will be part of a team where you will be really valued, and where you have the opportunity to shape and improve services.

We also offer:

• A competitive pay scheme, appointment to which will reflect your experience

• Guaranteed monthly supervision

• A manageable caseload

• Training and development, including training in our use of Signs of Safety and bespoke development pathway for IROs as part our workforce development offer.

• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme – a 24 hour independent, free and confidential advice and support service.

• A range of flexible working options

• Annual leave entitlements with the opportunity to purchase up to 10 days’ additional leave per year

• A generous flexitime scheme with up to 24 days per year

• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.

Post source:jobs.theguardian.com

Posters Information:

Name:SOLIHULL MBC

Contact number: