Report concerns about an adult working with children

If you worry about an adult working with children you should report them right away. 

The local authority designated officer (LADO) in Southwark gives advice and guidance.

When to contact the LADO

Contact the LADO if an individual working with children:

• has caused harm to a child or might have harmed a child
• might have committed a criminal act against a child
• has shown behaviour that they are a potential risk to children
• has shown they’re unsuitable to work with children

If you're unsure about an allegation's severity, ask the LADO. You can also ask your agency's safeguarding lead for help. You'll receive advice on how to proceed.

The LADO will advise on whether and when to tell an adult they’re being investigated.

They also assist by:

• advising on the next steps for investigation
• coordinating with police and other agencies
• organising strategy meetings for complex cases
• monitoring progress to ensure quick, fair resolutions
• initiating child protection procedures if there's a risk of significant harm
• advising on whether the adult should continue working during the investigation
• guiding on sharing information with parents and other parties

The LADO will also help to decide the professional's future in child-related work. This includes referring them to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) or professional bodies as needed.

Possible outcomes

Outcomes from a LADO referral can include:

• dismissal of false or unfounded allegations
• confirmation of substantiated allegations
• employer's internal investigation
• police investigation and possible prosecution
• recommendations for support, monitoring or additional training upon reinstatement

Report dismissals to the DBS. It will decide if the adult is barred from future work with children. It's crucial to ensure a comprehensive investigation, regardless of resignation or compromise agreements.

Advice before referring

It's our collective responsibility to safeguard children in Southwark.

If you're a professional and worry about a colleague's conduct with children, ask for help.

For advice or to report a concern, call:

• 020 7525 3297 

• or 020 7525 0689

Make a referral to LADO