Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) - Birmingham - Sanctuary Personal

Sanctuary Personnel Ltd; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading social care agency is seeking an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) in Birmingham. This pivotal role offers both part-time and full-time options at a competitive rate of £41.42 per hour. You will oversee children's care plans, advocate for their well-being, and ensure quality assurance in their reviews. Ideal candidates will have relevant qualifications in social care and strong communication skills. Join a respected agency committed to professional development and excellent service delivery.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Competitive hourly pay

Ongoing training and development

Networking opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in children's social care and child protection.
• Strong understanding of care planning and statutory requirements.
• Ability to work collaboratively with professionals.

Responsibilities

• Chair Looked After Child (LAC) Reviews within statutory timescales.
• Promote the voice of the child in care planning.
• Provide independent oversight to drive improved outcomes.
• Produce comprehensive reports reflecting children's voices.

Skills

Child advocacy

Communication skills

Report writing

Expertise in safeguarding

Education

Relevant professional qualifications in social care

Job description

Location: Birmingham, UK
Salary: £41.42 per hour
Contract: Ongoing
Hours: Part-Time / Full-Time

Step into a pivotal role as an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) within Children’s Social Care in Birmingham. This ongoing opportunity offers flexibility with both part-time and full-time hours, along with a highly competitive hourly rate of £41.42. As an IRO, you will champion the rights, safety, and wellbeing of children in care, providing independent oversight and ensuring that every child’s care plan supports their long-term stability, aspirations, and best outcomes.

Perks and Benefits:

Part-Time / Full-Time Options: Tailor your working hours to suit your lifestyle and commitments.

Attractive Hourly Pay: Benefit from excellent earning potential with flexible hourly pay.

Variety & Challenge: Enjoy a dynamic role with diverse responsibilities that keep every day stimulating.

Professional Growth: Access ongoing training and development to maintain and expand your expertise.

Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with a range of multi-agency professionals, strengthening your professional network.

What You Will Do:

1. Reviewing & Care Planning

Chair Looked After Child (LAC) Reviews within statutory timescales.

Ensure each child has a clear, updated, and high-quality care plan aligned with their needs, goals, and aspirations.

Monitor progress, challenge drift or delay, and ensure accountability across professionals.

2. Advocacy & the Child’s Voice

Promote and protect the voice of the child, ensuring their views shape their care plans.

Encourage participation through age-appropriate communication tools and methods.

Act as a consistent advocate for children in care.

Identify and address safeguarding concerns, escalating issues when necessary.

Work closely with social workers, managers, and partner agencies to ensure safety and stability.

Support safe care planning and risk assessment processes.

4. Quality Assurance & Reporting

Provide independent oversight of casework to drive improved outcomes.

Produce clear, comprehensive reports that reflect the child’s voice and multi-agency contributions.

Support monitoring and auditing of service quality within Birmingham Children’s Trust.

5. Professional Challenge & Leadership

Offer constructive, evidence-based challenge where practice falls short.

Contribute to service improvement through reflective practice and high ethical standards.

Provide leadership that strengthens care planning and promotes child-centred practice.

Work collaboratively with education, health, police, and partner agencies.

Ensure holistic and informed decision-making for every child’s care plan.

Build strong inter‑agency relationships to maximise positive outcomes.

Why Birmingham?

Birmingham is a dynamic and diverse city offering rich culture, innovation, and a warm community feel. Whether you’re looking for exciting work opportunities, career development, or a lively urban lifestyle, Birmingham provides an excellent backdrop for both professional and personal growth.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel:

Sanctuary Personnel is a trusted and award‑winning agency. With an ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot from over 1,000 reviews and numerous prestigious awards, we are committed to securing you the best rates and roles that align with your skills and experience.

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