Independent Reviewing Officer / Child Protection ChairLocation: Hackney (Hybrid)Rate: £45.20ph UmbrellaHours: Full-time, 36 hours per weekStart Date: ASAPAbout the RoleWe are currently seeking an experienced and authoritative Independent Reviewing Officer / Child Protection Chair to join the Children Services Safeguarding and Quality Assurance team.This is a key statutory role, responsible for independently chairing Child Protection Conferences, Looked After Children Reviews, and Foster Carer Annual Reviews, ensuring that children''s voices, lived experiences, and best interests remain central to all decision-making.You will provide robust professional challenge, quality assurance, and scrutiny of care planning, holding the Local Authority and partner agencies to account to achieve the best possible outcomes for children and young people.Key ResponsibilitiesChair multi-agency Child Protection Conferences, LAC Reviews, and Foster Carer Annual ReviewsMake clear, defensible threshold decisions in relation to risk and significant harmEnsure high-quality, timely care planning and statutory complianceChampion children''s voices and lived experiences in all forumsProvide independent professional challenge and escalate concerns where required, including to senior leadership and CAFCASSQuality assure social work practice and contribute to service improvementPromote and role-model systemic, trauma-informed and anti-racist practiceWork effectively with partner agencies to avoid drift an