Independent Reviewing Officer (iro) in Harrow, Middlesex

Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)

Job Title: Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)
Specialism: Children's Social Work
Location: Harrow, London, UK
Salary: £39.04 – £45.20 per hour
Contract Type: Ongoing
Working Pattern: Part Time / Full Time (Flexible Hours Available)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join Children’s Services in Harrow on an ongoing locum basis. This role offers a competitive hourly rate and flexible working arrangements, including varied start and finish times to support work-life balance.

As an IRO, you will provide independent oversight of care planning for Children Looked After, ensuring statutory duties are fulfilled and that each child’s voice remains central to planning and decision-making. You will play a key role in quality assurance, performance monitoring and continuous improvement across the service.

Key Responsibilities

Care Planning & Review Oversight

• Act as lead officer for reviews of Children Looked After

• Chair statutory Children Looked After reviews and Child Protection conferences

• Ensure care plans are timely, outcome-focused and reflective of each child’s individual needs

• Monitor progress against agreed actions and statutory timescales

Quality Assurance & Practice Challenge

• Monitor and evaluate practice standards across cases

• Provide constructive challenge where practice falls below expected standards

• Escalate concerns appropriately to senior management

• Contribute to achieving local and national performance targets

Professional Advice & Service Improvement

• Provide expert advice and guidance to managers and social care staff

• Act as a consultant for best practice within Children’s Services

• Apply current research and developmental initiatives to strengthen service delivery

• Contribute to continuous improvement and quality assurance processes

Advocacy & Inclusive Practice

• Ensure the child’s voice is heard and represented in all review processes

• Promote culturally sensitive and inclusive approaches to care planning

• Support positive outcomes for children from diverse backgrounds

Requirements

• Social Work England registration

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Social Work

• Significant post-qualifying experience within Children’s Social Work

• Experience chairing reviews or conferences

• Strong knowledge of statutory frameworks relating to Children Looked After and Child Protection

• Ability to provide effective independent oversight and challenge

• Excellent communication, analytical and organisational skills

Perks and Benefits

• Flexible part-time or full-time working arrangements

• Competitive hourly rate

• Flexible start and finish times

• Opportunity to contribute at a strategic and quality assurance level

• Supportive and collaborative team environment

Why Harrow?

Harrow is a diverse and well-connected London borough offering a strong sense of community and access to excellent local amenities. With green spaces, strong transport links into Central London and a vibrant cultural landscape, Harrow provides a balanced and engaging environment for professionals seeking both career development and quality of life.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel

Sanctuary Personnel is a trusted and award-winning recruitment agency with an Excellent rating on Trustpilot from over 1,000 reviews. We are committed to securing competitive rates and roles that align with your experience, skills and career goals.

When you work with Sanctuary Personnel, you will receive dedicated consultant support, transparent communication and ongoing guidance throughout your placement and beyond.