Keyword

Independent Safeguarding Authority

The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) has been set up as a single vetting and barring body for all those working with children and vulnerable adults. It has been created in response to recommendations in the Bichard Inquiry arising from the Soham murders.

Its powers are being adopted in stages. From 20 January 2008, all new referrals for List 99 and the PoCA List (Protection of Children Act 1999) referrals must be sent to the ISA, rather than the Department for Children, Schools and Families or the Department of Health. From 12 October 2009, the ISA's vetting and barring scheme will be formally launched and it will be a legal requirement for individuals applying to work or volunteer with children or vulnerable adults to be registered with the Vetting and Barring Scheme.