Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) for Telford & Wrekin has responsibility for overseeing and managing allegations and concerns about adults who work or volunteer with children. The LADO provides advice, guidance and support to employers and organisations, ensuring that concerns are dealt with fairly, consistently and in a timely manner, while safeguarding children and young people.
The LADO should be contacted when there is a concern that a person working with children has:
Behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed, a child.
Potentially committed a criminal offence against, or related to, a child.
Behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm.
Behaved in a way in their personal life that raises concerns about their suitability to work with children.
The LADO's role is to coordinate information sharing, provide advice on appropriate next steps, and ensure that children are protected whilst supporting a fair and transparent process for all involved. The LADO does not conduct investigations but works alongside employers, schools, childcare settings, health services, police, and other agencies to oversee allegations management and ensure procedures are followed appropriately.
If you are concerned about the behaviour of a professional, volunteer, foster carer, or anyone in a position of trust working with children in Telford & Wrekin, please contact the LADO for advice and guidance at the earliest opportunity. You can do this by contacting Family Connect.
Protecting children is everyone's responsibility, and timely reporting of concerns helps to ensure children's safety and wellbeing across our communities.
Contacting the LADO:
Contacting the LADO If you are an employer, organisation, or professional with concerns about the conduct of an adult working or volunteering with children, you should contact the LADO/Family Connect as soon as possible for advice and guidance. Concerns should be reported within one working day of becoming aware of the allegation or concern.
How to make a referral: Contact the Family Connect/LADO by telephone if advice is required before making a referral. Where there is an immediate risk of harm to a child, contact Children's Social Care and/or the Police without delay. A referral form is attached for professionals completing and must be returns to Family Connect.
Contact Details
📞 Telephone:01952 385385
📝 Referral Form: Link attached
Please provide as much information as possible when making a referral, including details of the individual concerned, the nature of the allegation, and any actions already taken. Early consultation can help ensure that appropriate safeguarding procedures are followed and that children are protected.
Please note: The LADO service manages allegations and concerns relating to adults who work or volunteer with children. If you are concerned about a child's immediate safety, contact Children's Social Care or the Police directly.