Safeguarding
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re working with children, adults, or vulnerable groups, it’s essential to have the right policies and procedures in place.
Local Authority Designated
Officer (LADO)
Learn how to report safeguarding concerns and who to contact
in Newham.
The MASH guide explains who to contact if you’re worried about a child, how referrals are handled, and the support available in Newham.
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) is the person who should be notified
when there are concerns a professional or volunteer who works with children has:
Behaved in a way that 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 they may pose a risk of harm to children;
Behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.
Behaved in a way in their personal life that raises safeguarding concerns. These concerns do not have to directly relate to a child.
As a parent or carer, has a child that has become subject to child protection procedures
Is closely associated with someone in their personal lives (eg partner, member of the family or other household member) who may present a risk of harm to child/ren for whom the member of staff is responsible in their employment/volunteering.
LADO provides advice on whether an allegation falls within safeguarding procedures. If it does, they oversee the case, co-ordinate information sharing, and track investigations to ensure a timely resolution.
The role also involves liaising with the police, social care teams, Ofsted, and professional bodies to make sure the process is fair and thorough for everyone involved.
For more information or to make a referral, please go to https://www.newhamscp.org.uk/lado/
E-Learning Tools
Useful e-learning tools on child protection issues available to practitioners working with children and young people
Safeguarding Policies
Explore a council safeguarding policy template and examples from community
organisations to adapt for your own use.
HAF safeguarding
children policy
Renewal
programme
Newham
college
Bonny downs
community association
