When to get in touch with the Local Authority Designated Officers (LADO)

When to get in touch with the Local Authority Designated Officers (LADO)

In light of the recent Lucy Letby verdict, it is important to reiterate that it is everyone’s responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people.

All organisations working with children should have policies and procedures in place to safeguard children, including a Whistleblowing policy; this explains how individuals can report any wrongdoing or malpractice that affects others in their workplace, including inappropriate behaviour that could cause harm to a child or young person.

A Whistleblowing policy also acts to protect employees/ volunteers from any unfair treatment or retaliation for raising their concerns. It is important that you are familiar with your own organisation’s Whistleblowing policy and understand your responsibilities within it.

You should always report any concerns to the safeguarding lead within your organisation who will then decide whether a LADO referral is required.   However, if you feel unable to raise an issue, or feel that your genuine concerns are not being addressed, other whistleblowing channels are available to you, including contacting the LADO directly.