Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services.

The Sub-Committee received a report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services concerning The City of London, DCCS, 2024–2025 LADO Annual Report.

There were 122 LADO contacts in 2024–25, marking a 65% increase from the previous year. This rise aligns with broader trends across London and may be partly due to improved recording practices. The highest number of contacts came from other local authorities, reflecting jurisdictional complexities and the presence of employment agency head offices in the City. These agencies are often responsible for staff employed elsewhere, leading to City-based LADO involvement.

Contacts also came from members of the public, parents, and employees, though public referrals must go through employers. Education providers accounted for a significant portion of contacts, which is viewed positively as it indicates strong relationships and proactive safeguarding.

The most common concerns related to personal life issues, followed by sexual concerns (both recent and historic), and professional conduct. Personal life concerns included domestic abuse, mental health, substance use, and online exploitation. Three cases met the threshold for formal allegations: two involved agency teaching assistants (one substantiated, one not), and one involved a substantiated physical incident in a professional’s personal life.

Ongoing LADO training is delivered through the safeguarding partnership, with positive feedback and future sessions scheduled. Emphasis has been placed on employers’ legal duty to refer substantiated cases to the DBS. Guidance developed with London DBS coordinators is now available on the safeguarding partnership website.

Concerns were raised about ensuring substantiated allegations are communicated to future employers. While unsubstantiated concerns cannot be disclosed in references, employers are advised to inform individuals of their duty to disclose such matters. Agencies are encouraged to participate in LADO training, and efforts are ongoing to build relationships and share best practices across the London LADO network.

Social media was noted as a growing area of concern, both in terms of inappropriate professional conduct and its impact on mental health. Schools generally have clear policies, and safeguarding forums are used to share emerging themes and good practice. The Education and Safeguarding Forum receives regular updates, and operational best practices are being strengthened across schools.

RESOLVED – That, the report be noted.