Childrens IRO – Children & Families – #OR112059

Job Description

An exciting interim opportunity has arisen for an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join the Children & Families service at Isle of Wight Council, based at County Hall, Newport. This is a specialist role offering a rate of £35.62–£47.50 per hour, commencing 1 September 2026.

As IRO, you will chair multi-agency Looked After Children reviews and Child Protection conferences, ensuring all meetings are held within statutory timescales and to the highest standards. A key part of the role involves embedding a revised approach to Child Protection Conferencing using the Signs of Safety model, ensuring plans are strength-based, child-centred, and outcome-focused.

Key responsibilities include: chairing LAC reviews, CP conferences, and conflict resolution meetings; ensuring the voice of the child is central to all proceedings; undertaking Regulation 33 visits; providing quality assurance through case audits and management reviews; offering independent professional leadership and practice guidance to social workers and team managers; and monitoring local authority performance in relation to corporate parenting duties.

You will also contribute to service improvement by identifying practice themes, providing constructive feedback, and escalating safeguarding and practice alerts where appropriate.

Candidates must be qualified social workers registered with Social Work England, with substantial post-qualifying experience in children’s services, including LAC and CP conferencing. IRO experience is highly desirable. If you are ready to make a meaningful difference to children and young people on the Isle of Wight, please get in touch today.

What’s on offer:

* Excellent, competitive pay rates – paid weekly
* Supportive management team with approachable, experienced leaders
* A desirable location with great transport links
* A stable, well-resourced, and encouraging working environment

Why join Semester.co.uk?

* Free ongoing CPD and training opportunities to enhance your skills
* Competitive rates of pay with prompt, reliable payments through our in-house payroll
* Enhanced DBS processing included
* Dedicated, friendly consultant offering tailored support
* Access to a wide range of opportunities in your chosen location

Ready to take the next step? Click ‘Apply’ now to express your interest in this role, or explore other exciting opportunities with Semester.co.uk.