Independent Reviewing Officer CP Conference Chair

• Suffolk County Council

• Address: Bury St Edmunds IP33 3YU Ipswich IP1 5PB or Lowestoft NR33 0EQ - Hybrid

• Salary: 51483 - 58850 per annum depending on experience (pro rata for part time)

• Hours:Various -flexible working options available

• Contract: Permanent

Were passionate about improving the future for our customers our communities and the environment. If you are too join us in the role of anIndependent Reviewing Officer (IRO) / Child Protection Conference Chairand make a huge and meaningful impact. Your innovation and drive will help us to continue improving and evolving. Our opportunities and support will enable you to make a difference and leave a positive lasting legacy.

These roles are part of a county service with locations in Ipswich Bury St Edmunds and Lowestoft.

Positions available:

37 hours - Office base Riverside Lowestoft NR33 0EQ

37 hours - Office base West Suffolk House Bury St Edmunds IP33 3YU

29.6 hours -Office base Landmark House Ipswich IP1 5PB

Reimagine the possibilities.

Your role and responsibilities

As an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) / Child Protection Conference Chair within Suffolk County Councils Safeguarding and Reviewing Officer Service you will:

• Be responsible for the effective delivery of safeguarding services for children in care and those subject to child protection plans throughout the County.
• Work with and embed the Suffolk Signs of Safety and Wellbeing practice framework which positively impacts practice development family engagement staff morale and motivation.
• Chair Children in Care reviews and act as a Child Protection Conference Chair in initial and review child protection meetings.
• Conduct meticulous reviews of childrens care plans ensuring key actions and responsibilities are undertaken and that the childs safety and wellbeing are prioritisedwhether in care placements or family settings.
• Be part of the collaborative audit programme for Children and Young Peoples Services.
• Be a Regulation 44 visitor to Suffolk County Council childrens homes including monthly reporting on safeguarding effectiveness and home conduct.
• Provide strategic leadership and work closely with operational management.
• Include the views of children and families in their planning.
• Apply considerable experience in children in care and child protection.
• Use current research and legislation to inform practice.
• Provide reports and analysis to directorate management on safeguarding issues.
• Demonstrate effective multi-agency working.
• Scrutinise care and child protection plans.
• Achieve compliance against standards and operational requirements.
• Attend and chair meetings at various locations across Suffolk and beyond as necessary.

You will need to:

• have aSocial Work England registration
• have a recognisedsocial work qualificationand experience at a management level

Our council is led by an enthusiastic and capable team of leaders and managers who are committed to working together striving to improve and provide the best possible services. If you can join us with the same commitment then we welcome you to Suffolk which is a great place to work because of this.

You can view a full list of requirements in theJob and Person Profile (word).If you believe you can succeed in this role apply. Even if you dont meet all requirements still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

The team

The IROs are divided into 3 geographical teams this opportunity will predominantly cover responsibilities in either the North South or West of the County.

The IRO/CP Chairs within Suffolk are all experienced and competent managers who bring a strong sense of mission to the important role of ensuring with operational colleagues the best possible outcomes for the children with whom they work.

Empowering Everyone

Were big believers in potential possibility and the power of different ideas. Were always searching for ways to encourage respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation as shown in ourWorkforce Equality Report.

For more information

Please contact one of the following for a casual conversation:

Teresa Doney (North) (direct line) (mobile)

Caren Russell (West) (direct line) (mobile)

Michelle Stopher (South) (direct line)

How to apply

Step 1 -Read the Job and Person Profile (JPP) (word).

Step 2 -Click Apply Now to start your online application.

Step 3 -Upload asupporting statementanswering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use theSupporting Statement template.

1. Describe a time when you ensured the effective delivery of safeguarding services for children in care or those subject to child protection plans. What steps did you take to ensure their safety and wellbeing
2. Describe your experience in completing quality assurance processes or audits within childrens services. How did you use this process to improve service delivery within your role
3. Give an example of a complex meeting you have chaired. How did you ensure the child/rens voices were heard and the meeting achieved its objectives

Step 4 -Upload a CV (without name and personal details).

We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences. Applications suspected of being generated by AI may be rejected. We ask you to present your own work and ideas throughout the application process.

Please note:Without a supporting statement and CV your interest will not be progressed. If you require any reasonable adjustments to the application process before the next selection stage please contact our Recruitment Team by emailing or calling .If you are invited to the next stage of selection you will have another opportunity to request adjustments for the next stages of the process.

Closing date:11.30pm 2 October 2025

Interview date: 10 October 2025 Landmark House Ipswich

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid