The National Audit Office has confirmed that it is investigating the ability of the beleagured Criminal Records Bureau to protect children and vulnerable adults, writes Craig Kenny.
The NAO inquiry follows an independent review which recommended making radical changes - including an electronic applications system and some fingerprint checks – to ensure that the CRB can cope with demand.
Last November, the deadline for checking existing care home staff was delayed by 18 months, and checks on domiciliary care workers postponed indefinitely.
A spokesperson for the NAO said: "We are looking at whether the CRB is achieving its objectives, particularly in relation to safer recruitment to protect children and vulnerable adults.
"It will include the problems they encountered last summer and whether lessons have been learned. We expect to publish in late summer."
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Details of government consultations
02 October 2008
Private Member Bills
25 July 2008
Government Legislation
25 July 2008
