Protecting children and vulnerable people – Vetting and Barring

What do I need to do if I work or volunteer with children or vulnerable adults?

The requirement to register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) has been stopped for the moment.

You may well have to register at some time in the future, depending on Government decisions about when to re-open the process, and where they draw the line on which roles will be included in the Vetting and Barring Scheme.

However, the regulations about who is allowed to work with vulnerable people now, still apply. For example, these regulations cover people who are already barred, or who have been found to harm someone. To find out about the existing regulations, visit the DirectGov website:

We will update this page when the Government makes further announcements.

What are my responsibilities?

For details about the responsibilities of employers, employees and others, see the ISA website:

Read our easy summary:

Who runs the scheme?

The scheme was originally launched in October 2009, to stop unsuitable people from working or volunteering with children or vulnerable adults.

The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) manages the scheme in partnership with the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). It is the ISA which makes the final barring decisions and maintains the register.

Helpline and enquiries

The ISA will handle any specific enquiries you may have for employers, employees or volunteers. Contact their helpline:

  • Phone: 0300 123 1111 – 8am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday.
    This is a Lo-call number charged at local call rates. Outside office hours you can leave a message and will be called back.
  • Email: info@vbs-info.org.uk