Vetting and barring scheme put on hold

Registration was due to get underway next month but Home Secretary Theresa May has announced that the initiative will be put on hold and subject to a full review.

May said: "The safety of children and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance to the new government.

"However, it is also vital that we take a measured approach in these matters. 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 vetting and barring scheme will ensure this happens."

The database was first mooted in 2002, following the Soham murders, which highlighted poor information sharing and vetting procedures.

But since then the plans have come under fire from, among others, schools that were concerned it would deter parent volunteers.

Around 66,000 charities, councils and community groups are to be told that the plans have been halted.

The Independent Safeguarding Authority was to manage the database. The body will continue to maintain the separate lists of those who are barred from working with children and other groups.

Martin Narey, Barnardo's chief executive, is concerned the government may be "rash" in seeking to radically alter the vetting and barring scheme.

He said: "The scheme has the potential to restore parental confidence in the safety of their children and that is paramount. A robust system is needed to ensure effective barriers are in place to prevent people from negotiating themselves into positions of trust in order to sexually abuse children."