Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, when she plans to launch a consultation on the new Local Authority Designated Officer handbook.

The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) plays a vital role in safeguarding children by overseeing the management of allegations made against individuals who work with children in any capacity. To ensure this role is delivered consistently and effectively across all local authorities, the next revision of ‘Working together to safeguard children’ will include enhanced content on the role of the LADO. The department will continue to work with the sector on any further developments, including the development of a LADO Handbook.