IRO Practice standards for Looked after children
- I am compliant with the IRO handbook and all of my statutory responsibilities
- I record contact with children within 5 days of the contact but strive to do this immediately where possible
- I involve children in their reviews by holding a series of meetings, by direct attendance, by written contribution, by electronic means, via an advocate
- I address concerns with the partnership to improve outcomes for children
- I track recommendations to promote positive care and support for my children
- I challenge the Virtual Head when children are not achieving in education
- I promote the aspirations of children in care and challenge agencies that do not
- I observe children in placement to understand what their experiences on a daily basis are
- I follow up significant incidents and quality assure the Partnership response
- I contribute and report to the awareness of the Partnership and their performance by completing 6 monthly reports
- I face outwards as an IRO and understand my role in improving the quality of services locally
- I listen to the requests of the Children In Care Council and strive to ensure they are met
- I engage with children in a number of different ways in order to understand their needs, experiences and ensure the Care Plan meets their needs
- I use independent legal advice when required to ensure the rights of children are met
- I know how to refer a case to CAFCASS and will do so in order to ensure the rights of the child
- I will request legal representation for a child where I believe this is in their best interests
- I send out my recommendations within 5 days of the review
- I send out my minutes to professionals and where appropriate children within 20 days of the review
- I ensure that all care placements for children support the child to develop age-appropriate independence skills in preparation for them living independently or going to university so that they are prepared naturally and have the skills required
- I contribute to the local offer and speak to a young person about whether they wish for me to remain involved past their 18th birthday
- I am tenacious, committed, passionate and challenging in order to ensure children’s needs are being met
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/independent-reviewing-officers-handbook