The latest on the Vetting and Barring Scheme

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The registration phase of the VBS was due to begin in July 2010, however the Coalition Government halted the registration phase whilst a review was conducted into the scheme. The information below reflects guidance available before the review was announced. It will be updated once the outcomes of the review are released.

What is a referral?

The provision of information to the ISA about a person who has harmed or poses a risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult.

Who has a duty to refer?

Regulated activity providers

Personnel suppliers

Local authorities

Professional regulators

When should a referral be made?

If permission to work in a regulated activity is removed and there is proof of harm or risk of harm a referral must be made.

When you withdraw permission for a person to engage in regulated activity e.g. through dismissal (or would have) because they have been convicted or cautioned for:

A relevant offence - any offence that would result in an automatic barring e.g. sexual or violent offences (new guidance on this coming soon)

Engaged in relevant conduct - Any action (or inaction) that harms or poses the risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult

Or satisfied the harm test - nothing has happened but a risk exists e.g. a teacher admits to having a sexual preference for children but hasn't acted on it.

A referral can only be made if you have evidence to support the allegation.

What about parents/members of the public?

Parents or members of the public should go to social services or the police so they can investigate and make a referral if appropriate.

How to refer

Visit the ISA website to access the referral form and guidance on how to complete a referral.

Confused?

Visit http://www.childrensworkforcematters.org.uk/vetting-and-barring for the latest news, updates and details of where to access support

Still confused?

Contact the ISA direct. Tel: 0300 123 1111 or email info@vbs-info.org.uk .