Some of you will have already seen the recent government announcement about the further delay to the introduction of the full Vetting & Barring Scheme due to come into force this October. The recent announcement stated that the scheme will still start in October 2009. However the impact on sports clubs will not be felt until July 2010 and even then with will only be though the introduction of new style CRB forms.

Further detail is available on the CRB website

http://www.crb.gov.uk/Default.aspx?page=5290

and the ISA website

http://www.isa-gov.org.uk/Default.aspx?page=385

Subject to RFU Regulations being passed, rugby clubs will not really be affected until the start of season 2010. The criminal offences under the new legislation will not come into force until November 2010.
In respect of all this news we expect that club workforce personnel will not require ISA-registration through the Vetting & Barring Scheme until September 2010. Full training will be given in the late Spring of 2010.

We must however remind you of the need for all those who work closely, regularily and/or intensively with children now must have a CRB application with us at HQ within 6 weeks of being deployed into their chosen activity (eg coaching). Contact Chris Rawlings chrisrawlings@rfu.com for any assistance on CRB forms. Those without RFU-processed, Enhanced CRB clearance MUST only coach under the supervision of someone with a current, RFU-processed, Enhanced CRB check..

There will also probably be a new regulation (awaiting RFU ratification) for season 09/10 that will make it mandatory for all Club Welfare Officers to have undergone the RFU Club Welfare Officers Workshop. Contact alexisholding@rfu.com for course information.

The April edition of the safeguarding newsletter will be with you within the week.

Regards,

Nic