The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) is the person who should be notified when it's been alleged that someone who works with children has:

• behaved in a way which has harmed or might harm a child
• possibly committed a criminal offence against a child
• behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates he or she would pose a risk of harm if they work regularly or closely with children

What the LADO does

The LADO has responsibility for:

• the management and oversight of allegations against people who work with children
• providing guidance to employers and voluntary associations about how to deal with allegations against people who work with children
• liaising effectively with the police and other organisations to ensure that cases are dealt with as quickly as possible
• reporting to the local safeguarding children's board about all allegations against people who work with children and their outcomes

Contacting the LADO

You can contact the Barnsley LADO by calling (01226) 772341.