Procedures relating to Allegations Management
The procedures relating to Allegations Management should be followed when it is alleged that a member of staff or volunteer has:
- behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child;
- possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child; or
- behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children.
If you are not familiar with dealing with allegations against staff / volunteers, or for further detailed information on the processes to be followed, when one or more of the above criteria is met, please refer to the following guidance documents:
SCHOOLS: Part 4, ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ (2019): Keeping Children Safe in Education
ALL OTHER ORGANISATIONS: South West Child Protection Procedures
All organisations should have a designated senior manager (‘case manager’ in schools) who deals with allegations in conjunction with the Designated Officer / LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer)
The LADO’s role is to provide advice and guidance to the designated senior manager/case manager when dealing with allegations. The LADO will also liaise with children’s social care and the police, and will monitor the progress of cases to ensure that they are dealt with as quickly as possible, consistent with a thorough and fair process.
NOTIFYING THE LADO OF CONCERNS
On being advised of an allegation which meets the criteria, the designated senior manager/case manager should contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) within 1 working day.
Alternatively you can phone Somerset Direct on 0300 123 2224 and request an ARF.
Annual reports:
