Designated Clinical Officer role
The Designated Clinical Officer (DCO) is an experienced nurse or allied health professional who helps to facilitate the joint working between health, education and social care.
The DCO has a central role in contributing to developing and having oversight of activity across the health system to support them to deliver the statutory requirements in meeting the needs of children and young people with SEND.
Advisory role
DCOs have relevant expertise and experience to provide strategic health support and oversight. They advise local SEND partnerships relating to health and SEND including relevant legislation, statutory guidance, tribunal requirements, inspection frameworks and good practice.
Leadership role
DCO contributes to development and implementation of SEND Strategies and is a key component of the SEND leadership structure, at local partnership and Integrated Care Board level. They support workforce development and quality improvement.
Governance role
Oversight and understanding of quality and performance of health services in relation to SEND, and supports conversations relating to the quality assurance of health arrangements for children and young people placed locally, out of borough or placed in alternative provision.
Relationships and connections role
The DCO supports and strengthens the SEND Partnership through developing and maintaining relationships and connections. They connect with all partners including parent carers and other engagement groups to ensure children and parent carer voices are embedded in commissioning, monitoring, and evaluation of services.
DCO contacts
North Cumbria (excludes Millom but includes Eden): nencicb-nor.dconorthcumbria@nhs.net
South Cumbria (Millom area but excludes Eden): lscicb.dcowaf@nhs.net