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 http://www.isa-gov.org.uk/Default.aspx?page=379 to access the referral form and guidanceon 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 .