The role of the child’s Social Worker

When children and young people come into the care of the local authority, they are allocated a social worker. The social worker acts and exercises the local authority’s corporate parental responsibility.

Their responsibilities include ensuring that the child/young person’s needs are met, they act in the best interest of the child and encourages them to develop to their full potential.

The virtual school and social care work in partnership to ensure the child’s education is prioritised, alongside their care.

The role of the child’s Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)

The Independent Reviewing Officer’s (IRO) has a quality assurance responsibility to ensure that the wishes and feelings of the child/young person’s is taken into full consideration within the care planning and review process. It is important for the IRO to develop a consistent relationship with the child/young person to achieve this. The Virtual School works with the IRO by offering support, advice and guidance to promote positive outcomes for the child/young person.

The IRO Handbook Click icon to access download
The Virtual School Handbook Click icon to access download