What is the Designated Clinical Officer?

Designated Clinical Officer (DCO) Role within Integrated Care Boards (ICBs)

In accordance with the Children and Families Act (2014), each ICB  is required to appoint a DCO to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The DCO plays a role in collaboration between health services and local authorities to ensure effective implementation of the Act.

Key Responsibilities of the DCO include:

• Serve as a dedicated liaison for local authorities, schools, and colleges seeking specialist health advice for children and young people identified with SEND.
• Work in partnership with educational settings, local authorities, and health services to support children and young people with complex medical and life-limiting conditions.
• Ensure that health assessments, care planning, and ongoing support are delivered effectively, including considerations for transition to adult services up to the age of 25.
• Provide advice to the ICB and local authorities on strategic planning and commissioning of services for children and young people with SEND.
• Facilitate and monitor cooperation between health services and local authorities to ensure that care is coordinated and delivered in the best interests of the child and young people and, their family or carers.

Page reviewed 05.08.25