Investigations into allegation made abut an adult who works with children are managed by a Loal Authority Designated Officer (LADO).
The LADO does not do the investigation themselves. They manage the investigation, to make sure it is done thoroughly, fairly and on time. They work closely with the police, children's social care, employers and other involved professionals.
When an allegation is made, the LADO must be informed within 1 working day (or the next working day).
Making a referral
Referrals can be made by professionals, employers, and voluntary or faith organisations.
Who should be referred
All allegations relating to harm of a child or young person by those who work with them, must be taken seriously.
An allegation may be that someone who works with children (whether in a paid or unpaid capacity) has:
- behaved in a way that has, or may have, harmed a child
- possibly committed a criminal offence against a child, or related to a child
- behaved toward a child in a way that indicates that they would pose a risk of harm
- done something in relation to their work with adult service users, which causes concern about the welfare of an adult service user's children or they have another role working with children
Reasons for an allegation
An allegation is made against a person if there is an indication that they may not be suitable to work with children. This can be connected with their employment or voluntary activity, or in relation to their private life where:
- concerns arise about someone’s behaviour with their own children
- concerns arise about the behaviour of a partner, member of the family or other household member
- other information suggests they may pose a risk to any person that may demonstrate a transferable risk within their role with children
Please use our online form to complete your LADO referral.