Allegations against Staff and Volunteers

It is vital that any concerns or allegations of abuse made about a professional working with children and/or adults, whether paid, unpaid, voluntary, casual, agency, or anyone self-employed, is reported at the earliest opportunity. This will make sure that any allegation is dealt with fairly and quickly, ensuring the child or adult is protected effectively.

The procedures should be applied when there is an allegation or concern that a person who works with children, or adults with care and support needs, has:

• Behaved in a manner that has harmed, or may have harmed, a child or adult
• Potentially committed a criminal offence against or related to a child or adult
• Behaved towards a child or adult in a manner which indicates that he/she may pose a threat.

In addition, these procedures should be applied when there is an allegation that any person who works with children:

• Has behaved in a way in their personal life that raises safeguarding concerns. These concerns do not have to relate to a child but could, for example, include arrest for possession of a weapon
• As a parent or carer, has become subject to child protection procedures
• Is associated with someone in their personal lives (e.g. partner, member of the family or other household member) who may present a risk of harm to children for whom the member of staff is responsible in their employment/volunteering.

Managing allegations involving children

The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) gives advice and guidance to employers and others who are concerned about an adult who works with children including volunteers and agency staff.

The LADO has the responsibility to help safeguard children in accordance with the statutory guidance set out in Chapter 2: Organisational responsibilities of Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023: Working together to safeguard children 2023: statutory guidance

The LADO Service for the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is based alongside the other Children's Services in the borough, within Achieving for Children.  For all allegations against staff and volunteers, please contact the LADO on 07774 332675. Alternatively you can email LADO@achievingforchildren.org.uk

Please see the links below to documents which show the LADO process.

Achieving for Children Allegation management procedures for staff and volunteers working with children

Quick guide to making a LADO referral

LADO Flowchart

LADO Annual Report 21/22

Sexual Gain