The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) (normally for the LA where the child or adult victim of concern lives) if the allegation is about behaviour towards a specific child or adult. The LADO (or equivalent) where the colleague’s lives if the allegation is about behaviour but with no identifiable child or learner victim. The LADO should: Discuss the allegation and obtain further details of the allegation and the circumstances in which it was made. Discuss whether there is evidence/information that establishes that the allegation is false or unfounded. Some safeguarding allegations are clearly so serious that they require immediate referral to the Local Authority and the Police. Other allegations that appear to meet the criteria may seem less serious; however, it is important that they are followed up and Investigated by the external authorities who may hold other relevant information about the individual that is unknown to SCL. If the allegation is considered to meet the criteria for referral, then the safety and welfare of any child or learner is of the utmost importance, and any child or learner protection investigation and/or Police investigation must take priority over any internal SCL procedures. The act of suspension does not indicate a person’s guilt. An individual must not be suspended automatically when there has been an allegation or without careful thought. Suspension Suspension should be considered in any case where: There is cause to suspect a child is at risk of significant harm. The allegation warrants investigation by the police; or it so serious that it might be grounds for dismissal; or There are concerns that the person about whom the allegations are made, may put pressure on or interfere with potential witnesses. The power to suspend the accused member of colleagues sits with the SDSL and PD. Head and discussion with the CEdO. However, in making this decision the SDSL will need to take into consideration the views of the Police and the Local Authority. The SDSL together with the PD will be responsible for deciding how and when to feed back to the person who made or received the allegation, and what information to give to others who may know the accused individual concerned. Actions Following Conclusion of the Investigation After any external investigations, the SDSL/DSL in conjunction with the LADO will formally review the outcome and determine any further action required. The range of options
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