CYP Now - Vulnerable groups: Safeguarding Act welcomed but campaigners callfor more action

Campaigners have welcomed a new law requiring all adults working with children to be vetted. But they warned that more still needs to be done to prevent child abuse.

The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act requires employers to check staffworking with children for criminal offences or face a fine of up to5,000.

A new list of offenders has been produced for the legislation, combiningthe Criminal Records Bureau's list, List 99 and another list set up bythe Protection of Children Act.

The NSPCC said the Act will help to protect children from abuse, butemphasised that employers will also have to take additionalmeasures.

These include always checking references when employing people andensuring staff know how to recognise and respond to any concerns theyhave about a child.

Chief executive Mary Marsh said: "This legislation will only work iforganisations have robust child protection policies to back up thelaw."

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