From 12th October 2009, new measures will be introduced to help prevent unsuitable people from undertaking paid or voluntary work with children or vulnerable adults. The new Scheme is called the Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) and all new employees will be able to start to register for the Scheme from July 2010 before it becomes compulsory in November 2010. Until a person is registered they will not be able to be legally employed or used as a homestay provider.

The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) which manages the Scheme, has developed a toolkit to help spread the word about the new requirement. The toolkit includes downloadable posters and leaflets that can be used to help inform new job applicants about the importance of being ISA-registered. The link is: www.isa-gov.org.uk/toolkit

Please also refer to the services and resources page in the members’ area of the website to download a detailed guidance document on the VBS prepared by English UK.