The government’s new Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Bill, stipulates the creation of a new vetting and barring system which will integrate the current List 99 (for teachers), and the Protection of Children Act lists (for those working in childcare settings) as well as a new list dealing with those banned from working with vulnerable adults.
The idea of the database is to allow employers to make an instant check of prospective employees, thus removing the need for the current paper-based process. One example it offered was that of parents being able to check whether private tutors, nannies, music teachers and care workers could be safely employed.
The government says the database will work both ways. Those found knowingly employing somebody from the list in a role which puts them into contact with vulnerable people will face penalties of up to five years in prison and up to GBP5,000 fines.
