Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
Staffordshire LADO is specifically involved in cases where there is a concern or allegation that someone working or volunteering with children:
- Has behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child
- Has possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child
- Has behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates he or she may pose a risk of harm to children
- Has behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children
They give advice and guidance on how concerns or allegations should be investigated.
They do not investigate but must ensure that an appropriate investigation is carried out, whether that is by the police, children’s social care or the employer or a combination of these.
Making a referral
To make a referral to the Duty Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) please complete the online referral form below.
LADO referral form
‘Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018’ states that the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) must be informed within one working day of the allegation/concern being raised. (Chapter 4,226).
A LADO referral is separate from a safeguarding referral. There are occasions where the referrer may have concerns about someone who works with children along with safeguarding concerns about them as a parent. This will warrant a referral to LADO and SSIFD.
Out of hours urgent referrals
For referrals which require an urgent response outside of normal working hours (including weekends and Bank Holidays), then advice should be sought from:
The Emergency Duty Service (located within the SSIFD):
0345 604 2886
Making an enquiry
If you are unsure whether a concern warrants a referral to Staffordshire LADO and/or require advice and consultation about another matter, you can contact the Duty LADO using the below email address. (Consultation could result in you being asked to complete a LADO referral as per above process):
staffordshire.lado@staffordshire.gov.uk
Further information
Visit Staffordshire Safeguarding Children Partnership website for further guidance.