LAUNCH OF THE NEW VETTING AND BARRING SCHEME (VBS)
Changes planned for 12 October 2009 and the new safeguards that will be introduced to enhance the protection of children and vulnerable adults.
From 12 October 2009
· The creation of two new Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) barred lists. This list will replace the existing List 99 and POCA, POVA lists.
· Access to these new ISA lists will be available on request as part of an Enhanced CRB check.
· Eligibility for Enhanced CRB checks will expand to include more employment and voluntary positions, such roles will be known as regulated positions.
· Standard CRB checks will no longer be available for those working with children or the vulnerable.
· There is no change to the current application process.
From July 2010 - Please note ISA registration has been put on hold until further notice
LAUNCH OF THE NEW VETTING AND BARRING SCHEME (VBS)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When will the VBS launch?
The new Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) launches 12 October 2009.
What has changed?
The VBS is built on existing strong safeguards and when delivered will be the most comprehensive scheme anywhere in the world. As such it is important that all elements are properly designed and tested before they are introduced. As the scheme has been developed we have had to reassess some of our initial assumptions on how the scheme would be delivered. It is also vital that all of the scheme’s elements are properly designed, piloted and tested before final introduction.
What will change on 12 October 2009?
Increased safeguards will be introduced, further enhancing protection of children and vulnerable adults. The three current barring lists (POCA, POVA and List 99) will be replaced by the creation of two new barred lists administered by the ISA rather than several government departments. Checks of these new lists can be made as part of an Enhanced CRB check. Employers, social services and professional regulators have a duty to refer to the ISA any information about individuals who may pose a risk ensuring potential threats to vulnerable groups can be identified and dealt with. There will be criminal penalties for barred individuals who seek or undertake work with vulnerable groups and for employers who knowingly take them on. The eligibility criteria for Enhanced CRB checks will be extended to include anyone working in a regulated position.
What will change in July 2010?
No Change - ISA registration has been put on hold until further notice.
Can I get a Standard CRB check on those working with children and/or vulnerable adults?
No. From 12 October 2009, if you used to apply for a Standard CRB check on those working with children and/or vulnerable adults you will need to apply for an Enhanced CRB check. The Standard CRB Check will be for all other positions covered by the Exceptions Oder 1975 to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 for example positions within the Security Industry and Financial Services.
Will you be changing the eligibility criteria for Enhanced CRB checks?
Yes, if a person is working in a regulated position you will be entitled to an Enhanced CRB check from 12 October 2009.
What is regulated activity?
· Any activity on a specified nature that involve contact with children or vulnerable adults frequently, intensively and/or overnight (Such activities include teaching, training, care, supervision, advice, treatment and transportation.)
· Any activity allowing contact with children or vulnerable adults that is in a specified place frequently or intensively (Such places include schools and care homes.)
· Fostering and childminding (childcare is covered above by place or specified nature, childminding is separated out as a provision from childcare as it is a requirement for them to register even though they’re self employed and frequency doesn’t apply to either) are also covered under the term.
· Any activity that involves people in certain defined positions of responsibility. (Such positions include school governor, director of children services, director of adults social services and trustee of certain charities.
‘Regulated activity’ is when the activity is frequent (once a month or more). ‘intensive’ (takes place on three or more days in a 30 day period) or overnight. (Frequency and the period conditions do not apply to the provisions for fostering, childminding, those who have defined positions of responsibility. Overnight only applies in relation to reaching, care, advice, treatment, not chat room moderation or transport).
