The Vetting and Barring Scheme has been halted while the new government conducts a review of the scheme.

What does this mean?

The first phase of registration to the scheme was due to start on 26th July - new entrants and those moving roles were able to register. This has been stoppedto allow the government time to re-model the scheme.

Why?

The new Coalition Government want to review the vetting and barring scheme and scale it back to common sense levels. For further information click here.

Scope of the remodelling process

The process for remodelling the Vetting & Barring Scheme is currently being finalised. Further details will be announced shortly.

Will ISA registration still be introduced?

It is not yet clear how the Government's remodelling of the Vetting and Barring Scheme will impact the future of ISA registration. Once more information about the outcome of the remodel is available, the CRB will communicate this to you.

What about CRB checks?

During this process it will be business as usual for the CRB Disclosure service. Although the Scheme has been stopped, changes introduced in October 2009 are still in place. Organisations that are engaging individuals to work in regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults should continue to use their existing safeguarding practices, including the use of enhanced CRB disclosures where these are required by law or regarded as appropriate by employers.

For further information about the impact on CRBs click here.

What are my responsibilities now?

You should continue to carry out appropriate pre-recruitment checks, including CRB checks where appropriate or required by law. New safeguarding regulations introduced in October 2009 continue to apply. These include:

• Barred individuals are not allowed to work or volunteer with children or vulnerable groups. For further information on barring click here.
• Organisations are not allowed to engage a barred individual in voluntary or paid work with children or vulnerable groups.
• If a staff member or volunteer is dismissed from thier role because they harm a child or vulnerable adult, the organisation must refer this information to the ISA. For further information about making a referral click here.

Further Information 

Check the CRB website (www.crb.homeoffice.gov.uk) for the latest information on the disclosure process. Alternatively, you can contact the CRB Customer Services team on 0870 90 90 811

The latest guidance about the other aspects of the scheme is available via http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk,  www.direct.gov.uk or www.businesslink.gov.uk . The VBS contact centre can also provide you with guidance if you call them on 0300 123 1111 (this is a lo-call number and will only cost you the same as making a local call).