The Independent Reviewing Officer

Every Child Looked After also has an Independent Reviewing Officer and they are usually known as an IRO. They are independent of those responsible for managing the child's case or allocating resources and it is their responsibility to undertake regular reviews of the child's care plan, to monitor how far outcomes have been achieved and to make any necessary changes to the care plan in light of circumstances. The frequency of reviews can vary, but they should never be less frequent than every 6 months.

The IRO's primary task is to make sure that the care plan reflects the child's current needs and that the actions set out in the plan are consistent with the local authority's legal responsibilities towards the child.

The review of the care plan usually involves the IRO chairing a meeting with the key members of the team around the child. All parts of the care plan should be reviewed, including the PEP.

As well as chairing the child's review, the IRO has to monitor the implementation of the care plan, ensuring that the child's wishes and feelings have been established and taken into account, where appropriate.