The index, to be introduced through a Protection of Children Bill and operational in Scotland by the end of next year, will list people who have been dismissed from employment or voluntary work with children and may pose a risk to children. An undertaking to establish such an index was first given by the Scottish Executive in the wake of the Dunblane tragedy in 1996.
Under the plans, it will be a criminal offence for those on the index, as well as those convicted of certain serious offences against children, to work with children. Employers will have a duty to refer cases to the Scottish Executive for consideration for placement on the index when they dismiss someone from a position involving working with children in circumstances that suggest they might pose a risk. It will also be compulsory for organisations already regulated by the state to check the index through the Scottish Criminal Records Office when they intend to employ someone to work with children.
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