Designated Clinical Officer

The Designated Clinical Officer (DCO) is an experienced nurse or allied health professional who has a leading role in developing and having oversight of health systems. This helps to support and deliver the statutory requirements in meeting the needs of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). 

Advisory role

The DCO advises on:

• relevant legislation
• statutory guidance
• tribunal requirements
• inspection frameworks
• good practice

Leadership role

The DCO contributes to the development and implementation of SEND strategies. This 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 SEND health services. Supporting 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 form part of the commissioning, monitoring, and evaluation of services.