The VBS was designed to protect children and vulnerable adults by preventing those who pose a known risk from gaining access to them through their work or volunteering. The VBS checks that everyone who wants to work frequently with children or vulnerable adults is safe to do so.
The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) now maintains two lists, one of those barred from working with children, the other of those barred from working with vulnerable adults.
Why has ISA registration been halted?The new coalition Government had already stated their intention to "review the vetting and barring regime and scale it back to common sense levels".
The Government appreciates the amount of work and preparation that has gone into the scheme in sectors that work with children or vulnerable adults. Ministers are also aware that affected organisations will be keen to hear, from the new Government, details not only on the remodelling itself, but also on whether it will lead to any change to the future introduction of ISA registration.
The scope and timing of the remodel are expected to be finalised shortly and the CRB will communicate any updates as soon as more information is available.
Will ISA registration still be introduced?Since January 2009, the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) has been making independent barring decisions. It will continue to maintain two constantly updated lists, one for those barred from working with children, the other for those barred from working with vulnerable adults;
Existing requirements concerning Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Access Northern Ireland checks will remain in place, and those entitled to such checks can continue to apply for them; and
Employers are still legally obliged to refer information to the ISA if they have moved or removed an individual because they have harmed or there is a risk of harm to a member of a vulnerable group.
Can I still use the ISA Adult First service?The ISA Adult First service will continue to be available until the 26 July 2010. Once we know the full scope of the Government’s work to remodel the VBS, we will provide a further update on the availability of the service.
When will Atlantic Data issue the new forms?Atlantic Data's clients processing applications through the electronic channel will not be impacted by this announcement and will continue to make CRB checks as per normal. Clients using the overprinted service will see a change in the questions asked and the format required. These changes will mirror the requirements of the CRB and a further announcement will be made shortly as to when these changes will be introduced.
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