toggle menuMENU Process: Managing safeguarding allegations Question:Process: Managing safeguarding allegationsAnswer:Immediate action Ensure the child is safeTake immediate steps to protect the child. This might involve temporarily removing the staff member or volunteer from their duties. Contact the LADOReport the allegation to the LADO within 24 hours of becoming aware of it. Initial discussion with LADO The LADO will assess whether the allegation meets the threshold for further investigation and advise on the next steps The LADO may involve the police and/or Children’s Social Care at this stage. Fact-finding/Investigation Fact-finding should be a neutral gathering of information to help decide the next steps. It is crucial that no formal disciplinary actions (e.g., interviews) are taken without guidance from the LADO, as this could interfere with any potential police investigation. Risk assessment and safety planning A risk assessment should be carried out to evaluate the risk posed by the staff member or volunteer to children Safety planning may involve temporarily reassigning the staff member, additional supervision, or other protective measures while investigations are ongoing. Outcomes: After looking into the allegation, there are four possible outcomes: SubstantiatedThis means there is enough evidence to prove the allegation. What happens next: the individual concerned may face disciplinary action, be referred to regulatory bodies (like the DBS), or even face criminal prosecution. Further training or supervision may be required if the person remains in their role. UnsubstantiatedThis means there isn’t enough evidence to prove or disprove the allegation.What happens next: no immediate action is taken, but the individual may remain under supervision. The allegation may still lead to discussions about improving safety practices or supervision. UnfoundedThis means the allegation is shown to be false. What happens next: no action is taken against the individual. MaliciousThis means the allegation was made with the intent to cause harm and is entirely false.What happens next: no action is taken against the individual concerned; however, action might be taken against the person who made the false allegation. Timelines Initial reporting: Report to LADO within 24 hours Allegations management meetings (if necessary): Within five working days Resolution: Aim for resolution of the case within four weeks where possible.