Local Area Designated Officer (LADO)

What is the role of LADO?

Local authorities have a designated officer or team to be involved in the management and oversight of allegations against people who work with children. This role is known as LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer).

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

When to follow the allegations procedure

The LADO works within Children’s Services and should be alerted to all cases where it is alleged that a person working with children has

  • behaved in a way that has 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 is or may be a risk of harm to children
  • behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicated they may not be suitable to work with children

If you are concerned that a child or children are at immediate risk of significant harm contact the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 01983 823435 or the Police on 999 or 101

How to report an allegation

For all initial contacts to the LADO service submit an initial enquiry form using the link below

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.

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