Allegations against people who work with children

Referrals to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) should be made where there are concerns that someone who works (in a paid or unpaid capacity) with children may have: 

• behaved in a way which has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child
• possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child
• behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates that he or she would pose a risk of harm if they worked regularly or closely with children
• behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children (added from Working Together 2018 update in December 2020)

This includes allegations where it might indicate that the person is unsuitable to continue to work with children in their current position and the allegations may relate to the person’s behaviour at work, at home or in another setting.

The designated officer should be informed within one working day of all allegations that come to an employer’s attention or that are made directly to the police. These referrals should be made on the LADO Referral Form, and emailed to LADO@bracknell-forest.gov.uk or call 01344 351572 for an initial discussion.

Further information from the LADO can be found in this presentation and full guidance from the Berkshire Multi-agency Safeguarding Arrangements Procedures can be accessed by clicking here.

Free online training 'Understanding the role of the LADO' is available for anyone who works with children in Bracknell Forest.  There are a range of dates from September 2023 to January 2024.  Check flyer for details of how to book. 

The BF Safeguarding Board also has an Allegations Management Framework for allegations against people working with adults with care and support needs (for example, those in position of trust).  Further information can be found here.