Managing Allegations

A LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) is a statutory role in England responsible for managing and overseeing allegations or concerns raised against any adult who works or volunteers with children.

What the LADO Does

Oversees Cases: Tracks and coordinates the process from initial referral to final resolution, ensuring it is fair, thorough, and timely.
Does Not Investigate Directly: Instead of carrying out investigations themselves, the LADO guides employers, police, and children’s social care on who should investigate.
Provides Advice: Offers expert guidance to organizations and employers on whether an incident meets the threshold for a formal safeguarding response.
Manages Multi-Agency Meetings: Chairs strategy meetings to share information safely and effectively between police, social services, and employers.

In Newcastle the LADO is based within the Children and Families Connect team.