The Vetting and Barring Scheme is a new computer system that will eventually affect the entire children's workforce. From October 2009 the law will require the registration of all those who engage in 'regulated activity' - that is to say, those who work or volunteer with children and vulnerable adults.
The aim is to hold not only information about criminal convictions, but also 'soft intelligence' relating to the unsuitability of individuals to work with children.
According to the Independent Safeguarding Authority, which has been set up to run the scheme, gossip and rumour will not be factors in determining whether someone poses a risk. Where the authority considers barring a person it will be legally bound to share its information, and that person will have the opportunity to make representations to have the decision reversed.
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