Vetting and barring review announced
The reform of the Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) will begin soon with the Government announcing that it is reconsidering whether this is the most effective way to protect vulnerable people.
The reform of the Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) will begin soon with the Government announcing that it is reconsidering whether this is the most effective way to protect vulnerable people.
The Government believes the VBS is too bureaucratic and extreme and formally announced a review that will look at ways to make it more proportionate or to even scrap it entirely.
Home Office Minister Lynne Featherstone said: While it is vital that we protect the vulnerable, this scheme as it stands is not a proportionate response. There should be a presumption that people wishing to work or volunteer with children and vulnerable adults are safe to do so unless it can be shown otherwise.
Children and Families Minister Tim Loughton said: Children must be protected when vulnerable and this is everyones responsibility. Any vetting system should not be a substitute for proper vigilance by individuals and society. At the moment the pendulum has swung too far and threatens to drive a wedge between children and well-meaning adults. Such individuals should be welcomed and encouraged as much as possible, unless it can be shown that children would not be safe in their care.
The final recommendations for the reform of the VBS scheme will be announced in the New Year.
The main aspects to be looked at include the scope of the schemes coverage and the most appropriate role and structure of relevant bodies. It will also consider whether minor offences and police intelligence should still be disclosed.