Independent Safeguarding Authority scheme

ATL union have a factsheet on their web site covering the new Independent Safeguarding Authority scheme.


This factsheet explores the framework for the new vetting and barring service, covering those working or volunteering with children or vulnerable adults

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What's it about, why has it been brought in, and might it affect you if you're an instructor?

Following the Soham murders the government set up an Inquiry chaired by Sir Michael Bichard. The Inquiry published its report in 2004 and made 31 recommendations. One of the recommendations stated that:

“New arrangements should be introduced requiring those who wish to work with children, or vulnerable adults, to be registered. The register would confirm that there is no known reason why an individual should not work with those clients.”

The government accepted the recommendation and as a result enacted the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups(Northern Ireland) Order 2007.

Independent Safeguarding Authority

The Act set out the framework for a new vetting and barring service, covering those who work or volunteer with children (defined as those under the age of 18) and vulnerable adults. The scheme is to be fully introduced from 26 July 2010.

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