Glossary

LADO

Local Authority Designated Officer. The LADO Service manages allegations against individuals who work or volunteer with children.

Lead social worker

Each child who is the subject of a child protection plan should have a named lead social worker. The lead social worker must be a qualified and experienced social worker. This role was previously called 'Keyworker'. 

The lead social worker acts as the lead professional for inter-agency work with the child and family, co-ordinating the contribution of both family members and professionals.

It is important that the role of the lead social worker is fully explained at the initial child protection conference and at the core group.

Looked After Child

A 'Looked After Child' is a child who is being looked after by their local authority (also known as child in care), who is the subject to an care order or an emergency protection order, or who is remanded by a court into local authority accommodation or youth dentention. They might be living with foster parents, in a residential children's home or in a schol or secure unit. They could also be at home with their parents but under the supervision of social services. 

LSCB

Local Safeguarding Children Board(s)

LSCP

Local Safeguarding Children Partnership(s)