Independent Reviewing Officer

Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)
3 Month Interim Contract | Immediate Start
£40.00–£45.00 per hour
Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
Hybrid working

CVs are being reviewed immediately and interviews will be taking place week commencing 5th May

Are you an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) ready to step into a pivotal interim assignment where your expertise will have an immediate and meaningful impact? This is a high‑profile opportunity supporting a busy statutory children’s service at a critical time, where strong leadership, professional challenge and a child‑first approach are essential.
In this role, you will sit at the heart of decision‑making, holding responsibility for ensuring that children’s voices are heard, statutory requirements are met, and that care and protection planning drives real, measurable outcomes. You will work closely with senior leaders, social workers and multi‑agency partners, influencing practice and providing assurance across complex and sensitive cases. With an immediate start and extension potential, this is a chance to make your mark quickly and decisively.

Your role as Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO):

• Chairing Child Protection Conferences and Children We Care For reviews, ensuring compliance with statutory guidance
  • Driving SMART, child‑centred care and protection plans that deliver improved outcomes
  • Monitoring and constructively challenging practice, escalating concerns where required
  • Leading multi‑agency collaboration, strengthening communication and shared accountability
  • Delivering quality assurance activity, including audits, case reviews and practice improvement

Your previous experience as Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO):

• A recognised Social Work qualification with current Social Work England registration
  • Minimum 5 years’ post‑qualification experience within children’s statutory services
  • Proven track record operating at IRO level within a Local Authority setting
  • Strong ability to engage with children, young people and families, even in complex situations
  • Excellent analytical, communication and report‑writing skills, with confidence to challenge

This Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) contract offers pace, purpose and the chance to contribute at a senior level from day one. With interviews already scheduled and an ASAP start, early applications are strongly encouraged.

If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail, or know someone who may be suitable, please apply today or get in touch to start the conversation.

(We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation. Our clients are committed to creating a diverse workforce and supporting reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.)