Lead Officer

West Lothian Council are looking for an individual who has a combination of professional knowledge, leadership ability, interpersonal skills and personal qualities to manage the complex safeguarding responsibilities attributed to the Child Protection Lead Officer role. The Lead Officer will support the implementation of the core functions of the Child Protection Committee consistent with section 4.13 Protecting Children and Young People: Child Protection Committees, 2005.

Directly accountable to the Child Protection Committee and managed by the Chairperson, the Lead Officer will be responsible for maintaining an independent overview of inter-agency child protection activity and will take the lead role in ensuring continuous improvement.

The Lead Officer will play a key role in the promotion of good practice by assisting in the development and implementation of quality assurance mechanisms and ensuring these contribute to improved outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.

The Lead Officer will ensure the CPC is informed of national developments, including changes in legislation, Scottish Executive policies, regulations and guidance; research evidence and best practice examples in child protection. With direct reporting responsibility to the CPC and to Chief Officers through the CPC, the Lead Officer will compile evidence-based reports reflecting key indicators of performance and standards of practice in child protection.

Applicants must be educated to degree level with a relevant professional qualification in Social Work, Health, Education, Law enforcement or Legal Practice. A minimum of 5 years working in a public protection setting is also required.

Registration with an associated professional body is also required for this post.