independent Officer - Cardiff Council

Independent Officer (freelance) - Children's Services Complaints

City of Cardiff Council. Pay rate: £40 an hour (£12.50 for travel hours). This freelance role requires an experienced, independent professional to investigate Stage2 complaints under the Social Services Complaints Procedure (Wales). The position ensures complaints are handled fairly, transparently and in line with statutory guidance, supporting accountability and continuous improvement across services for children and families.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out independent investigations into Stage2 children's services complaints.
• Work with an Independent Person where required to ensure fairness, transparency and compliance.
• Gather and analyse evidence, including case records, policies and interviews with relevant parties.
• Engage sensitively with complainants, families, advocates and professionals.
• Produce clear, balanced, evidence based investigation reports with findings and recommendations.
• Ensure investigations comply with the Social Services Complaints Procedure (Wales) Regulations.
• Identify learning opportunities to support service improvement.

Qualifications & Experience

• Substantial experience in children's social care, safeguarding or complaint investigation work.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and frameworks, including the Social Services and Well Being (Wales) Act2014, the Children Act1989 &2004 and Welsh statutory complaints procedures.
• Ability to conduct fair, thorough and impartial investigations.
• Excellent report writing skills with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with experience managing sensitive situations.
• Capacity to work independently and manage assignments effectively.
• A relevant professional qualification (e.g. social work, legal or investigative background) is desirable.

Additional Information

• This is a freelance, sessional role with work allocated on an as needed basis.
• Applicants must demonstrate independence from Cardiff Council's Children's Services.
• The role involves dealing with sensitive and potentially distressing information, requiring professionalism and resilience.

Benefits

• 20 years' experience in the Social Work market.
• Local agency based in Cardiff.
• Welsh speaking consultant available.
• PAYE and Umbrella payroll options available.
• Dedicated point of contact to support during leave.
• Twice weekly payroll.
• Refer a friend scheme.
• Birthday gifts after one year in service.
• Wellbeing sessions.

Eligibility Requirements

• Relevant Social Work qualification.
• Registration with Social Care Wales or Social Work England.
• Enhanced DBS registration or willingness to apply for DBS.
• Three years of referencing.
• Driving licence with access to a car.