There is some confusion surrounding the change to the rules regarding those who work with vulnerable people.  In summary, the new ISA requirements will set up a list of people registered to work with vulnerable people, that will exist alongside the CRB checking system.

From November 2010 the Independent Safguarding Authority (ISA) has said that all those who commence new work or start a new volunteering vole after that date must apply to be registered with them.  This registration is the responsibility of the employee or volunteer.  This is in addition to the CRB disclosure that the organisation will continue to take out.

The ISA envisage that it will take up to 2015 to ensure that all those already in roles are registered.

No-one needs to do anything until July 2010 as it is not possible to register before this date.

In respect of volunteers the new rules put the onus on the volunteer to register themselves.  All the voluntary organisation has to do is check the on-line register.  When carrying out a CRB from April 2010 it will be possible to ask for a CRB with a barred list check to see if that person is on the barred register.

The new rules also place a responsibilty on employers and organisations to refer to the ISA anyone whom they bar from an activity.  Failure to do so, is an offence.

There is a difference between ‘Regulated Activity’ and ‘Controlled Activity’ and a barred person may be able to undertake ‘Controlled activity’. There are also many guidelines on what constitutes a ‘Regulated Activity Provider’.

For more information please see the Criminal Records Bureau Website.