A transferable risk in the context of staff allegations refers to situations where the behavior of a staff member or volunteer outside of the workplace could impact their suitability to work with children. This means that conduct or circumstances in their personal life, even if not directly related to their work, may present a risk of harm to children they work with. Examples include involvement in domestic violence, possession of a weapon, serious drug offenses, extremist behavior, or close association with someone who poses a risk to children. This concept is often considered under the "suitability threshold" for managing allegations, where the behavior outside work raises safeguarding concerns that could transfer risk to children in the workplace. If there is potential transferable risk, a risk assessment may be undertaken to evaluate whether it is safe for the individual to remain in their role. The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) is typically involved in deciding whether concerns meet the threshold for action, including a transferable risk assessment. In summary, transferable risk means that personal life behaviors or associations of a staff member could affect their suitability and safety regarding working with children, and these risks must be assessed and managed appropriately.
