Appointment To Increase Protection Of Children And Vulnerable Adults

The creation of the new Vetting and Barring Scheme has taken an important step forward with the appointment of Sir Roger Singleton as chair of the new Independent Barring Board (IBB). He will oversee the development of the scheme in preparation for its launch in 2008.

Sir Roger, currently an advisor to the Government on child protection, will bring with him a wealth of experience to the role having a strong background both in working with vulnerable people as well as developing stronger child protection initiatives.

Announcing the appointment, Home Office Minister Joan Ryan said: “Protecting the most vulnerable people in our communities is a vitally important duty. Sir Roger Singleton’s track record in child protection and his experience in the education and care sectors mean he is ideally suited to help build this new and important organisation.

“The Vetting and Barring Scheme is at the heart of the Government’s strategy to increase the protection of children and vulnerable adults. With Sir Roger at the helm we will be able to make great steps in developing the scheme and implementing a key recommendation of Sir Michael Bichard.”

Sir Roger Singleton said: “My aim is to develop the best possible arrangements for protecting children and vulnerable adults. The IBB will play a vital part in the new Vetting and Barring Scheme by ensuring that the tiny minority of people who are not suitable to work with children or vulnerable groups are legally prevented from doing so.

“We want to ensure that parents, relatives and the public, as well as children and vulnerable people themselves, can be confident that those working with them are safe and reliable. Whether in schools, child care centres, clubs, youth groups, hospitals, care homes or day centres safeguarding the vulnerable is our number one priority.”