Independent Reviewing Officer

The service is countywide and therefore candidates will be expected to work across other locality areas as needed to meet service demand. We very much promote flexible working with the ability to work remotely from a variety of bases as well as from home, provided it is suitable to provide the best service. However, the post holders will be required to chair complex meetings across North Yorkshire as required and as set out below. It is expected that meetings with children and their families take place in person. Join Our ‘Outstanding’ Team as an Independent Reviewing Officer North Yorkshire Council is proud to have a national reputation for excellence, and we’re looking for passionate Independent Reviewing Officers (IROs) to join our dedicated team. We also welcome those who are looking to relocate. This is a great opportunity to become part of a well-established, experienced team, who are determined to achieve the highest standards of care and safety for children and young people. The successful candidates will be required to work from other parts of North Yorkshire as required. What Makes This Role Special? As an IRO, you’ll be the independent voice for children and young people, ensuring their thoughts and opinions shape the decisions about their care. You will have a key role in ensuring the safety and welfare of children and young people. You’ll chair reviews and oversee the plans for Children in Care, chair Child Protection Conferences, undertake Regulation 44 visits to our children’s homes and also conduct Annual Reviews for Foster Carers, holding the Local Authority and partners to account and promoting a high quality of practice. This is a role for someone who thrives on making a difference, values quality assurance, and wants to work in an environment that embraces transformational change and innovation. What We’re Looking For Qualified Social Worker (Diploma in Social Work or equivalent). Social Work England registration. Significant experience in children and families work, including complex cases and multi‑agency meetings. Strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills. Ability to travel across North Yorkshire and work flexibly, including occasional out‑of‑hours meetings. As a council we are lucky to benefit from access to modern technology enabling staff to work from multiple locations, working from home. We very much promote flexible working, providing it meets our service needs. Why Join Us? Generous Annual Leave: 28 days of holiday (pro‑rata), increasing to 34 days after 5 years’ service – plus public holidays. Pension Scheme: Save for your future with our generous Local Government Pension Scheme. Fitness Discounts: Discounted Gym memberships at various gyms across the county. Lifestyle Savings: Enjoy a wide range of discounts at hundreds of popular high‑street and online retailers. And more: Additional wellbeing support, employee assistance, and development opportunities. North Yorkshire as a county also benefits from excellent road and rail links, with easy access to bordering regions such as Yorkshire & Humber, Lincolnshire, and East Riding, all of which are easily commutable to our great county, some members of our team travel from surrounding towns and cities including York, Beverley and Whitby. For an informal discussion about this post, please contact Melanie Dadd, IRO Team Manager at Melanie.Dadd@northyorks.gov.uk We welcome individuals looking to relocate, for further information please see our Relocation Policy. Key dates Closing date: Monday 1st December 2025 Interview date: Week Commencing Monday 8th December 2025 Key documents Job Description / Person Specification.pdf To apply please click the Apply Now link below. #J-18808-Ljbffr