The LADO must be contacted within one day in respect of all cases in which it is alleged that a person who works with children has:
- behaved in a way that has harmed, 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; or
- behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.
There may be up to three strands in the consideration of an allegation:
- a police investigation of a possible criminal offence;
- enquiries and assessment by children’s social care about whether a child is in need of protection or in need of services;
- consideration by an employer of disciplinary action in respect of the individual.
The LADO is responsible for:
- Providing advice, information and guidance to employers and voluntary organisations around allegations and concerns regarding paid and unpaid workers.
- Managing and overseeing individual cases from all partner agencies.
- Ensuring the child’s voice is heard and that they are safeguarded.
- Ensuring there is a consistent, fair and thorough process for all adults working with children and young people against whom an allegation is made.
- Monitoring the progress of cases to ensure they are dealt with as quickly as possible.
- Recommending a referral and chairing the strategy meeting in cases where the allegation requires investigation by police and/or social care.
The LADO is involved from the initial phase of the allegation through to the conclusion of the case. The LADO is available to discuss any concerns and to assist you in deciding whether you need to make a referral and/or take any immediate management action to protect a child.
If you wish to discuss any concerns and are unsure of the above criteria, please contact the LADO for advice and information on 01908 254307 or email us at LADO@milton-keynes.gov.uk.
Our Notification form can be obtained here: LADO notification form.
If the above criteria has been met then you should make a referral to the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) by completing the Multi-Agency Referral Form (MARF).
If there is a significant safeguarding concern you should refer to the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub on 01908 253169 / 253170. If there is an immediate risk to the child contact Police on 999.
Leaflets
Information for employees (plain text)
Information for employers (plain text)
Understanding the role of the LADO
Understanding the role of the LADO (plain text)
Reports
LADO annual report 2022-23 (plain text)
Link
MK Together - Allegations against Staff, Carers and Volunteers