Slough Children First: Independent Professional Roles

Slough Children First is seeking experienced independent professionals to support the statutory children's social care complaints process. These roles provide impartial, evidence-based oversight of complaints and may involve undertaking Stage 2 investigations, acting as an Independent Person, and/or chairing or participating in Stage 3 Review Panels.

Role Responsibilities

Stage 2 Investigations

• Independently investigate complaints relating to children's social care services.
• Review case records and relevant documentation.
• Gather evidence through interviews and discussions.
• Work alongside an Independent Person to ensure investigations are fair, transparent and robust.
• Analyse information objectively, assess whether services have acted in line with statutory requirements and good practice.
• Produce clear reports that set out findings, conclusions and recommendations.
• Help identify learning opportunities and support improvements for children, young people and families.

Stage 3 Review Panels

• Review the adequacy of Stage 2 investigations and the organisation's response to complaints.
• Consider whether investigations have been conducted fairly, thoroughly and in accordance with statutory guidance, and whether proposed remedies are appropriate.
• Work as part of a Review Panel to examine evidence, consider representations from complainants and professionals, contribute to balanced discussions and help reach evidence-based conclusions.
• Provide clear written recommendations that support learning, accountability and continuous service improvement.