Hi folks, I am afraid it is all about risk management. It is a bit of a hot potato at the moment as I am sure you are all aware - recent cases of unfortunate incidents in the media spring to mind.
I would not worry about it though , it is just a formality and should not present a problem to those with nothing to hide.
It also does not mean that the misdemeanours of our youth will come back to haunt us. Rehabilitation periods apply to past actions and spent convictions are deemed as being just that.
It is however, a legal requirement for all Governmental and some non Governmental bodies to insist that a CRB check be carried out regardles of whether one has recently been supplied to another organisation.
Copies of up to date CRB checks are a pre - requisite of most if not all organisations where sensitive material or individuals who might be considered as being at risk are involved such as businesse, schools, colleges etc.
It also forms part of the conditions necessary to comply with stake holder insurance provision.
In my experience it is unusual for an individual to provide his / her own CRB check, this is usually done dealt with by Principal Contractors prior to filling out PQQ's (pre qualification questioanires) on larger projects.
If nothing else it keeps the wrong elements from carrying out works which should be allocated to properly trained, law abiding citizens
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Regards,Will.