In October 2009 the new Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) is due to be launched. Created under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, (previously Vetting and Barring Scheme) it will replace the current List 99, PoCA, PoVA and Disqualification Orders regimes. The ISA will decide who is unsuitable to work or volunteer with vulnerable groups. It will base its decisions on pulling together information held by various agencies, government departments and the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB).
This new scheme will have a big impact on current policies and procedures within paddlesport and we appreciate that some clubs and individuals may be concerned about your legal responsibilities under the new scheme. There has been a lot of consultation to try to ensure that the needs of sporting organizations are taken into account, however, at this stage there are several issues still to be resolved, which will confirm how best to manage this from a volunteers and paid employment perspective. Canoe England will update all clubs and members once this has been resolved and provide guidance and advice to support everyone who are involved with young people. At this stage we advise that you continue to undertake appropriate recruitment practices for individuals working with young people eg CRB checks, references etc, For further information see the Safeguarding and Protecting section of our website.