Last month we informed you of the Government announcement to scale back the vetting and barring and criminal records regime to ‘common sense levels’. Since then, we have eagerly anticipated the Terms of Reference that would outline the scope of the review.
On Friday 22 October 2010, the Home Secretary announced the Terms of Reference which have been collectively agreed by the Secretaries of State for Education and Health. Alongside the review of VBS, Terms of Reference for the review of the criminal records regime were also announced.
The VBS Review will allow time to consider afresh the fundamental principles and objectives of the VBS regime, to ensure that it strikes the right balance between protecting children and vulnerable adults, whilst maintaining a sensible and proportionate approach to vetting. The review will also evaluate the scope of the scheme’s coverage and consider whether a scheme is still required.
The Criminal Records Review, which will run in parallel to the VBS Review, will look at the broader issues around the disclosure of criminal records. It will also examine the balance between civil liberties and public protection in relation to the current use of the CRB service, and ensure that the systems are proportionate and less burdensome. The review will also consider the use of police intelligence as part of CRB checks.
It is anticipated that the review will take two / three months to complete and in the meantime, the CRB will continue with business as usual. There will be no immediate changes to the current service that we provide to our customers. Until the recommendations from both reviews are announced early in the New Year, we cannot pre-determine any changes to the service.
- Whilst the review is being undertaken, customers are reminded:
To continue to apply for CRB checks as normal, referring to the appropriate guidance for completing the new application form. There are no changes to the current process; - There is still a duty to refer information to the ISA if you consider that an individual has caused harm or poses an ongoing risk to vulnerable groups;
- The ISA will still continue to be responsible for decisions to bar those considered unsuitable for work with children and vulnerable adults.
If you or your organisation wish to comment please email the review team at crb@personnelchecks.co.uk
Your comments will be passed to the review Team at the Home Office
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