We often get asked “What are Children’s Barred List Checks?” Hopefully we can clear that up for you now.
List 99 Checks – what were the List 99 Checks?
Not many people realise List 99 Checks – Checks of all individuals deemed unsuitable to work with children – no longer really exist.
They have been replaced by Children’s Barred List Checks.
When the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) merged to form the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in 2012, it signalled the end of the List 99 Checks as we knew them.
This merger was designed to improve the process of CRB Checks. As a result of the merger, the DBS took control of all of the ISA’s Barred Lists, including List 99 – a list that contained all individuals deemed unsuitable for work with children.
The Children’s Barred List was born and the rest is history.
What are Children’s Barred List Checks – how have things changed?
The Children’s Barred List remains much the same as List 99 in terms of details already contained on it and actions which would lead to inclusion.
Automatic barring remains one of the major ways someone could be included on the Barred List.
This means the person has been convicted or cautioned for an offence which automatically places them on the Barred List and leaves them with no rights to make a representation against their inclusion.
A person can also be included on the Barred List if they have been referred to the DBS by their employer or any organisational body because they have had to be removed from work either due to the harm they have already caused or the risk of harm they present.
It is important to bear in mind that, for them to feature on the Children’s Barred List, this work would have to be regulated activity with children.
In some of these cases the person in question retains a right to make a representation as to why they shouldn’t be placed on the list.
The DBS will then use the evidence presented to determine their inclusion or otherwise.
Employer responsibility – crucial information for the workplace
Employers should note that it is a criminal offence not to refer someone to the DBS when you have dismissed them from work due to either harm caused or that person’s potential to cause harm.
Organisations who need to request a DBS Check can do this through our unique online portal.
All that is required is for organisations to create an account. We then provide access and you can simply request this check online!
Results are usually returned within 48 hours.
Children’s Barred List Checks can be requested as part of an Enhanced DBS Check application where eligible. If you have any questions about Children’s Barred List Checks – formerly known as List 99 Checks – or DBS Checks in general, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – we’re always happy to help.
