Despite all efforts of organisations to recruit safely, and to ensure people who work with children do so in a way that safeguards and promotes their welfare, there will still be occasions when allegations of abuse, or concerns about individuals in a ‘position of trust’, are raised.

A Designated Officer from the Local Authority (LADO Service) can intervene when allegations are made within any role for professionals or volunteers involved in working with children, ages from 0 to 18. The allegations usually occur within education, social care, health and sporting/ leisure areas, but are also relevant to professionals employed in the voluntary sector who may not be attached to any organisation.