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 in which 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

How to report an allegation

To assist with an increase in calls to the Safeguarding Unit, the LADO service will be trialling a new way of working. Instead of calling we will ask you to complete an initial enquiry form in order that your enquiry is processed effectively.

For all initial contacts to the LADO service please submit an initial enquiry form

The initial enquiry form should not prevent you from submitting a LADO Notification form in the event of an allegation being made that meets LADO threshold.

LADO is provided on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council by Hampshire County Council

Initial enquiry forms will be reviewed by a LADO and advice provided as appropriate. If further information is required, you may be asked to complete a LADO notification form

If you need to report an allegation you can contact the LADO.

Please call 01962 876364