LADO Allegations
Allegations against adults working with children
- Initial consultations will be dealt with in the first instance by Pamela Cope, Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) Allegations. Pam can be contacted by email here: [email protected]
The Local Authority Designated Officer for Allegations (LADO) must be told of allegations against adults working with children and young people within 24 hours. This includes all cases where a person is alleged to have:
- 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.
- Behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.
If judged appropriate during the initial contact with the LADO, an Allegations Referral Form must be completed by the senior manager in full and forwarded to the LADO via email within 24 hours.
In the absence of the LADO calls will be taken by the duty safeguarding team. Email [email protected] and the duty officer will return the call. If a child has been harmed the Integrated Front Door must also be informed: [email protected]
The full multi-agency Managing Allegations against Staff procedure can be accessed here:
The LADO procedure does not replace safeguarding procedures and the Integrated Front Door must be contacted if you have a safeguarding concern about a child.
A useful summary Flowchart is available below:
If you require advice about your agencies response to an allegation please contact your HR provider.
The LADO can only provide advice and guidance regarding allegations in relation to a person in a position of trust. Any general safeguarding enquiries or concerns should be reported to Wirral Children’s Services on 0151 606 2008 or 0151 677 6557 out of hours.
The LADO cannot provide advice to professionals subject to allegations, support and investigation updates should be sought directly from the investigating agency or employer.
Annual Report
The LADO section of the WSCP Annual Report can be found here: Annual Report 2023 – Key Activity – Wirral Safeguarding Children Partnership
LADO Forms and Guidance:
Forms
Guidance
Guidance for safer working practice for those working with children and young people
Disclosure and Barring Service Referral Form and Guidance Notes
Guide for Young People:
