Scotland to scrap loophole stopping adults using community schools
Cathy Wallace
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Scotland's children's minister has announced plans to scrap a legal loophole which could stop communities using schools.
Currently people using schools to teach adult classes could have to have disclosure checks.
This is because groups like parent councils which use schools could be seen to be in child care positions, even if they do not work directly with children.
The Scottish Government has created a legal amendment which means these groups will no longer have to have unnecessary checks.
Adam Ingram, children’s minister, said: “Scotland’s schools are often the hub of communities and the buildings offer a great resource for those living in the surrounding area.
“We want to ensure the buildings can be used to their full potential. We must ensure child protection measures are robust but the current laws were never intended to restrict the community use of schools.”
If the Scottish Parliament approves the amendment it will come into force on 1 July.
This is because groups like parent councils which use schools could be seen to be in child care positions, even if they do not work directly with children.
The Scottish Government has created a legal amendment which means these groups will no longer have to have unnecessary checks.
Adam Ingram, children’s minister, said: “Scotland’s schools are often the hub of communities and the buildings offer a great resource for those living in the surrounding area.
“We want to ensure the buildings can be used to their full potential. We must ensure child protection measures are robust but the current laws were never intended to restrict the community use of schools.”
If the Scottish Parliament approves the amendment it will come into force on 1 July.
