CRB CHECKS

If you undertake work with children, young persons or vulnerable adults, have you checked that your employees are safe to work in your environment and that that they do not have any records preventing them from doing so?

It is now a requirement that where you wish to make such checks you must say so in the advertisement and on application forms and also state in any offer letter and written statement of terms and conditions of employment that it is term and condition of their employment that they will accept that relevant checks will be made with all relevant bodies and registers, that includes the Criminal Records Bureau to ensure their suitability for the position and to ensure both the protection of children, young persons and vulnerable adults where relevant.  You must also state what type of Disclosure will be requested.

It does not mean that a criminal record, that includes the disclosure of spent convictions, will be a bar to the continuance of their employment if it is considered not relevant.  However, if you do not make such checks then you can be exposed to, and be responsible for, many employment and criminal outcomes.  Better be safe than sorry.

For further information visit the Criminal Records Bureau site www.crb.gov.uk.

From HR Solutions Newsletter: September 2004