Locum Look After Children Reviews Chair Independent Reviewing Officer

Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) – Locum – Hertfordshire County Council

Brief Job Overview

We are recruiting an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join Hertfordshire County Council on a locum contract. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the care planning and review process for children looked after by the local authority. You’ll ensure that each child’s care plan is effective, outcome-focused, and compliant with statutory requirements — always keeping the child’s voice at the centre of decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Chair statutory reviews for children in care, ensuring that plans promote their safety, stability, and wellbeing

• Provide independent oversight and challenge to ensure the quality and timeliness of care planning

• Monitor the progress of plans, raising concerns and escalating issues where necessary to achieve positive outcomes

• Build strong, professional relationships with children, social workers, and partner agencies

• Ensure that children’s wishes and feelings are fully represented and influence care planning decisions

• Contribute to service improvement and the development of best practice within Hertfordshire’s Children’s Services

About You

• You are a Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England (SWE)

• You have substantial post-qualifying experience in children’s social care, including time spent in a senior or reviewing role

• You have a thorough understanding of care planning, safeguarding legislation, and the IRO Handbook

• You are confident, analytical, and capable of providing independent challenge to improve outcomes for children

Requirements

• Degree in Social Work (or equivalent qualification)

• Current registration with Social Work England (SWE)

• Previous experience as an Independent Reviewing Officer or senior practitioner within children’s services

• In-depth knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory guidance

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and report-writing skills

• Ability to manage priorities and maintain professional independence

Contract & Salary

• Location: Hertfordshire

• Contract type: Locum / Temporary

• Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week

• Pay rate: Competitive, dependent on experience and pay scale

How to Apply

If you’re an experienced IRO ready to support high-quality care planning for children in Hertfordshire, apply using the form on the page.