Directorate - Children and Young People's Services 

Permament, Full Time, 37 Hours per week. 

Now is the time to come and work for Rotherham Council Children and Young People’s Service. For more information about Rotherham Social Care jobs, please visit: https://www.rotherham.gov.uk/childrens-social-work-jobs 

An opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated and experienced professional to join our Children’s Services team as an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO). This pivotal role is central to ensuring that the Local Authority fulfils its statutory responsibilities towards Looked After Children, and that care planning is both effective and child-centred. 

Role Overview 

The successful candidate will be responsible for chairing statutory reviews for Children in Care, ensuring that care plans are robust, reflect the child’s current needs, and promote positive outcomes. The IRO will provide independent oversight and scrutiny of the Local Authority’s performance in relation to care planning and safeguarding, offering constructive challenge where necessary to uphold the best interests of the child. 

The post holder will be expected to ensure full compliance with the statutory guidance outlined in the IRO Handbook and relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989 and associated regulations. The role requires a commitment to promoting the voice of the child and ensuring that their views are central to all decision-making processes. 

Key Responsibilities include:

• Chair statutory reviews in accordance with legal and procedural requirements
• Monitor the progress and quality of care planning and decision-making
• Escalate concerns and challenge poor practice in a restorative and solution-focused manner
• Maintain accurate and timely records of reviews and decisions
• Promote multi-agency collaboration to support positive outcomes for children 

For further discussion about this role please contact Joanne Hacking - Joanne.hacking@rotherham.gov.uk 

Shortlisting: Monday 3rd November 2025 

Interviews: Thursday 6th November 2025