ISA Registration

You may now be aware that the ISA registration stage of the Vetting and Barring Scheme has been halted to allow the Government to conduct a remodelling of the scheme back to 'proportionate, common sense levels'. As a result the ISA registration phase of the scheme has been stopped and will not launch on 26 July 2010.

The Home Secretary Theresa May said that the safety of children and vulnerable adults is of 'paramount importance to the new government', but that a measured approach is vital. She continued, 'We've listened to the criticisms and will respond with a scheme that has been fundamentally remodelled. Vulnerable groups must be properly protected in a way that is proportionate and sensible. This redrawing of the VBS will ensure this happens'.

Existing arrangements under the Scheme which will continue include:

• since January 2009, the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) has been making independent barring decisions. It will continue to maintain two constantly updated lists, one for those barred from working with children, the other for those barred from working with vulnerable adults;

• existing requirements concerning CRB checks will remain in place, and those entitled to such checks can continue to apply for them; and

• employers are still legally obliged to refer information to the ISA if they have moved or removed an individual because they have harmed or there is a risk of harm to a member of a vulnerable group.

The scope of the remodelling process - to be co-ordinated by the Home Office in partnership with Department of Health and Department of Education - is currently being finalised.  The  two current consultations: Continuing Need for a Controlled Activity Category in the Vetting and Barring Scheme AND Statutory requirements and advice, for CRB disclosures for safeguarding purposes, on workers already registered with the Independent Safeguarding Authority remain live with the closing date of 9th July: DSCF consultations

It is not yet clear how the Government's remodelling of the Vetting and Barring Scheme will impact  upon  the future of ISA registration. Once more information about this is available we will communicate it to you.

The press release is available at Home Office