SHOULD IRO BE ABOLISHED

[Alison J Stevens]

https://www.communitycare.co.uk/2022/06/17/should-iro-role-be-aboli...

A definite no is my answer.

Children require independent advocates so that they can highlight their wishes and feelings.

Advocates are required for Gillick children to be with them when they choose to take part in Child Protection Case Conferences, LAC reviews, and Children in need meetings.

To abolish IROs would be a very backward process and deny children the right to highlight their wishes and feelings.

Social Workers have a mandatory obligation to work in a child centred friendly way even with very young children and their wishes and feelings should be highlighted by their Key Social Worker.