Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) – Wiltshire Council

📍 Wiltshire | Hybrid Working
💷 Competitive Hourly Rate
🕒 37 Hours per Week | 2 Positions Available | Mid-July Start | Initial Contract until Mid-September

Hoop Social Work is recruiting two experienced Independent Reviewing Officers (IROs) to join Wiltshire Council's Conference and Reviewing & Quality Outcomes for Families and Children Team on an initial short-term agency contract.

These opportunities have arisen to provide essential cover following the departure of two IROs, ensuring continuity of high-quality oversight and positive outcomes for children in care across the county.

The Role

As an Independent Reviewing Officer, you will play a vital role in providing independent scrutiny of care planning, chairing statutory reviews for looked after children, and ensuring that the voices of children and young people remain at the centre of decision-making.

You will confidently challenge practice where required, monitor the quality and effectiveness of care planning, and work collaboratively with professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for children.

About You

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Social Worker with significant post-qualification experience, including a strong background in:

• Looked After Children services

• Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) practice

• Chairing statutory reviews

• Safeguarding children and promoting positive outcomes

You will have excellent knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory guidance, alongside strong communication, analytical and organisational skills. The ability to work independently whilst contributing positively to a supportive team is essential.

Hybrid Working

Wiltshire Council offers a flexible hybrid working model:

• 50% of administrative time is office-based

• The remaining time can be split between working from home and completing visits

To apply, you will need:

• A minimum of 6 months' UK experience working as a registered Social Worker

• A recognised Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent)

• Current registration with Social Work England

• An Enhanced DBS, registered on the Update Service, or willingness to apply for one

• The ability to provide 3 years of employment references

• A full UK driving licence with access to a vehicle

Why register with Hoop Social Work?

• Over 20 years' experience within the social work recruitment market

• A specialist agency recruiting across South West England and Wales

• Exclusive roles and early access to new opportunities

• PAYE or Umbrella payroll options to suit your preferences

• Twice-weekly payroll

• A dedicated consultant as your main point of contact, supported by an experienced team

• £200 referral bonus for every successful friend or colleague you recommend

• Wellbeing support and thoughtful extras, including birthday gifts

• Friendly DBS and compliance support to make the onboarding process straightforward

Due to the nature of this role, we can only consider applications from candidates who hold a recognised Social Work qualification and current registration with Social Work England.

Unfortunately, visa sponsorship is not available, so please only apply if you meet the above criteria.

Interested?

Contact Sarah Leigh at Hoop Social Work on 02922 400519 for a confidential, informal discussion about these opportunities.