in a school or college, if an allegation against a staff member is made, who should be informed immediately?

In a school or college, if an allegation against a staff member is made, the matter should be reported immediately to the Headteacher or the designated senior manager (such as a Designated Safeguarding Lead). The Headteacher or senior manager is then responsible for informing the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) on the same day, who will coordinate next steps including police or social care involvement if necessary. If the Headteacher is the subject of the allegation, the report should be made to the Chair of Governors or an appropriate senior manager. The person accused of the allegation should be informed as soon as possible after the initial reporting and advice from LADO. Parents or carers of involved children should also be informed appropriately unless advised otherwise by the LADO or police. This procedure ensures that the allegation is handled promptly, confidentially, and according to safeguarding protocols to protect all parties involved.