Local Authority Designated Officer
The Local Authority Officer (LADO)
The Local Authority Officer (LADO) is the person who should be notified when it has been alleged that someone who works with children has:
- behaved in a way which has harmed or might harm a child
- possibly committed a criminal offence against a child
- behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates he or she would pose a risk of harm if they work regularly or closely with children
What the LADO does
The (Local Authority) Designated Officer has responsibility for:
- the management and oversight of allegations against people who work with children;
- providing guidance to employers and voluntary associations about how to deal with allegations against people who work with children;
- liaising effectively with the Police and other organisations to ensure that cases are dealt with as quickly as possible; and
- reporting to the LSCP about all allegations against people who work with children and their outcomes.
LADO procedures
LADO procedures should be used by all organisations providing services for children, including those who provide staff or volunteers to work with or care for children. A referral to LADO should be made in situations in which an allegation or concern arises about the conduct of a person who works with children. This applies to all children and includes anyone who has not yet reached their 18th birthday.
The Safeguarding Unit will continue to offer safeguarding advice where it is not clear whether a LADO referral is to be completed. Please do not hesitate to contact the CYPS Safeguarding Unit if you have any queries.