Managing Allegations against those working with children

The role of the LADO is set out in section 11 of the Children's Act 2004 and in the HM Government guidance Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018).

The role is to give advice and guidance to employers and voluntary organisation, liaise with the Police and other agencies, and monitor the progress of cases to ensure that they are dealt with as quickly as possible, consistent with a thorough and fair process.

Every agency that works with children and young people should have a Designated Officer or manager whose job it is to liaise with and refer to LADO.

The LADO should be alerted to all 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 towards a child in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children
• Behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.

Making a referral

The LADO should be informed within one working day. Please complete the LADO referral form and send to ladoreferrals@tameside.gov.uk

What to do if an allegation or concern is raised about a member of your staff

If you’re faced with an allegation against an employee, volunteer, or a professional working or providing services to children you must contact the Designated Officer in your agency at the earliest opportunity.

Failure to do this could put children and young people at risk of harm. The Designated Officer should inform the LADO within 1 working day.

If you are not sure if the situation meets the threshold contact LADO for an informal discussion.

Greater Manchester procedures

Section 6.2 outlines the roles, responsibilities and procedures for managing allegations of abuse made against adults who work with children and young people.

Contact LADO

Tel. 0161 342 4343 and select option 3 for advice. LADO referrals are by the email address only ladoreferrals@tameside.gov.uk