Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
The LADO is responsible for managing and overseeing allegations made against staff or volunteers. The role is to ensure that allegations are dealt with in a fair, timely, and thorough manner. Contact LADO immediately for either a consultation or when allegation meets the threshold. The LADO will offer guidance on next steps and ensure the appropriate agencies are involved.
Police
If an allegation involves a criminal offence, the police must be contacted so that any criminal aspect of the allegation can be considered and investigated. The police will work with social care and the LADO to determine whether the staff member will be investigated for any criminal offence.
Children’s Social Care
If there are safeguarding concerns, Children’s Social Care should be involved to assess the child’s safety and wellbeing, provide support, and ensure a safeguarding plan is in place for the child if necessary.