Allegations Against Staff

If you believe that a child has been harmed by a person in a position of trust*, you should contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) service

*A person in a position of trust includes anyone who works with children in the course of their employment or in a voluntary capacity. Examples include: Teachers and other members of school staff, County Council employees, Foster Carers, GPs, doctors, nurses, Police Officers, Probation Service staff, Volunteer workers in schools, clubs or elsewhere Voluntary sector staff, e.g. NSPCC

Kids eating ice cream

The LADO service should be advised of all cases where 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 or children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children; or
  • Behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.

The LADO's role is to:

  • Give advice and guidance to employers and voluntary organisations
  • Liaise with the police and other agencies
  • Monitor the progress of cases to ensure that they are dealt with as quickly as possible consistent with a thorough and fair process

How to report an allegation

For all initial contacts to the LADO service submit an initial enquiry form using the link below
LADO Service Initial Enquiry Form

Initial enquiry forms will be reviewed by a LADO and will be responded to within 24 hours. If further information is required, you may be asked to complete a LADO referral form with further details in relation to the allegation, the child and the adult or adults you have concerns about.
 

If you need to speak to the LADO or have any queries in relation to completing the initial enquiry form call 01983 823723

All other  non-urgent  enquiries can be emailed to  lado@iow.gov.uk  and these will be responded to within 3 working days.