Standards for police vetting checks
HMIC should develop, with ACPO and the CRB, the standards to be observed by police forces in carrying out vetting checks. These should cover the intelligence databases to be searched, the robustness of procedures, guidance, training, supervision and audit.
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedThe Home Secretary made a statement to Parliament on 22 June 2004, the day the Bichard Inquiry Report was published, accepting all 31 recommendations in full. The government stated it was "in principle, accepting Sir Michael's main recommendations and will act on them immediately." Implementation led to the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and the creation of the Independent Safeguarding Authority (now the Disclosure and Barring Service). By February 2007, 21 of the 31 recommendations had been fully or substantially completed. See Hansard, 22 June 2004.
Progress Timeline
DBS introduced digital identity verification using UK passports. Completing its 2020-2025 strategy with automation of Standard and Enhanced checks.
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 received Royal Assent. Established the legislative framework for comprehensive vetting and barring checks for those working with children and vulnerable adults.