In brief...The Protection of Children Bill

Wednesday, September 19, 2001

The Protection of Children Bill is on course to be introduced into the Scottish Parliament early next year. The Bill means that people placed on the Index of Unsuitable Adults will be committing a criminal offence if they work with children or apply to work with them. It will be compulsory for state-regulated organisations, such as nursery schools and after-school-clubs, to check the index when they employ someone to work with children. Employers will also be under a duty to notify the Scottish Executive of people they think should be considered for inclusion, for example if they dismiss someone in circumstances suggesting they might pose a risk to children.