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Decision-Making, Suspension, Post Investigation Actions and Outcomes The DSL together with the PoP and, if appropriate, the CEdO, decides on action when an allegation is reported. If the allegation meets the statutory threshold, referral to the LADO must be made within 1 working day considering: • Immediate safety of any learner involved. • What, when, and with whom information should be shared, including the individual subject to the allegation and other employers. • Whether suspension is required pending investigation. • Securing relevant records or removing equipment from the individual. • Referral criteria to the Local Authority and/or Police. • Additional information needed for clarity. • Who is aware of the allegation and who has been spoken to. • Whether advice should be sought from the Local Authority or NSPCC. • Managing information sharing, speculation, leaks, or media interest. Referral Referral to the LADO must occur within 1 working day of the allegation being identified, regardless of whether the alleged individual is still in employment, to: • LADO in the child’s or adult’s local authority if the allegation concerns a specific victim. • LADO (or equivalent) in the alleged’s local authority if no identifiable victim. The LADO will: • Discuss and obtain details of the allegation. • Check for evidence that the allegation is false or unfounded. Serious allegations require immediate referral to Local Authority and Police. Investigations by external authorities take precedence over internal procedures. Suspension does not indicate guilt and must be considered carefully. Non recent allegations must be treated with the same statutory rigour as current allegations. The DSL must ensure referral to the LADO within 1 working day regardless of when the alleged incident occurred
Suspension Consider suspension if: •
A learner may be at risk of significant harm. • The allegation warrants Police investigation or could lead to dismissal. • The individual may interfere with witnesses.
SCL EDUCATION GROUP
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