The Safeguarding and Domestic Abuse Sector Podcast

How an independent reviewer can keep one foot in practice

The Safeguarding and Domestic Abuse Sector Podcast

Show Notes

In today's reviewer spotlight I talk to Sarah Mantom. Sarah is a Designated Safeguarding Nurse and has an employed role alongside her independent review work.

In this Reviewer Spotlight conversation we cover: -Why she chose to formalise her practice through SILP training -How she balances working for an organisation with independent review work -How she chose her specialism in reviews

Whether you joined the 5 Day Training last week, dropped off halfway through, or knew nothing about it… There is one session that brings all the best elements into one. It's called The Independent Reviewer Immersion Workshop. It takes place online on 23rd March from 1–2pm and is free to attend. In just one hour, you'll walk away knowing exactly what independent reviewing involves, whether your skills are transferable, and what the journey from blue light professional to independent reviewer actually looks like. There is no experience needed. No prior training required. Just bring your curiosity. Register now to save your space. https://donna-ohdedar.mykajabi.com/immersion-deepdive

About Donna: Donna has 16 years public sector experience, including her last role as Head of Law for a leading metropolitan authority. Now a safeguarding adviser & trainer, Donna is involved in serious case reviews in both children's and adults' safeguarding, domestic homicide and is a SILP Reviewer and Mentor. Donna offers 'SILP School' her university accredited training course, Momentum her space for reviewers & a free online network for leaders in review practice.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-ohdedar-review-consulting-ltd/

More from The Safeguarding and Domestic Abuse Sector Podcast

Oct 22, 2026

In this week's episode, I explore the 5 Ds of Active Bystander Intervention, drawing on guidance from the Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Service (DAVSS), and consider what this framework can teach us about safeguarding, professional curiosity and organisational culture. In this episode I discuss: What are the 5 Ds of Active Bystander Intervention

Oct 15, 2026

In this week's episode I reflect on the changes to the way domestic abuse will be identified and recorded within the criminal justice system. In this episode I discuss: The intention of the new Judicial Finding of Domestic Abuse

Oct 8, 2026

In this week's episode I reflect on the recent Sky News investigation into the experiences of domestic abuse victims within the Family Court. In this episode I discuss: Why culture change must sit alongside legislative and procedural reform

Oct 1, 2026

A new information sharing duty came into force on 30th September, introduced by the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act under a new section 16LA of the Children Act 2004. In this episode I look at the new statutory guidance and what the duty means for organisations. In this episode I discuss: What the new information sharing duty requires

Sep 24, 2026

The rules around regulated activity with children in England have changed and organisations working with children need to understand what that means for their safeguarding and safer recruitment arrangements. In this episode I explore what the new rules mean, which organisations need to take notice, and why this change closes a potential gap in safeguarding arrangements.

See all episodes →