Vetting And Barring Scheme: An Update

Important changes to criminal records and barring arrangements have recently been implemented with an impact on the existing duty of employers, especially with regard to checks required to be carried out in the recruitment process. These changes have been made in an attempt move towards more effective safeguards where harm or risk of harm is identified, acted upon and prevented.

The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

The Vetting and Barring Scheme ("VBS") under the 2006 Act was created with a view to registering and monitoring individuals, particularly those who would undertake 'regulated activities' or 'controlled activities' with children or vulnerable adults. Such individuals had to register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority ("ISA") and would be barred from such work if they were found to pose a risk. It was made a criminal offence to participate in regulated activities whilst unregistered and for employers or service providers to engage