When you apply for a DBS check or background screening from CBS, we assess a number of records to create a clear picture of a person’s criminal history, if they have one. This may include current and spent convictions, depending on the screening you select.
However, a recent exclusive by Good Morning Britain has found that a number of sex offenders who were indefinitely registered have now been removed from the list. Why is this? And what does this mean for DBS checks?
Why Were Over a Thousand Offenders Removed from the Register?
In the investigation by GMB which saw a freedom of information request gather data from 28 police forces, it was found that 1,902 requests were made to be removed from the sex offenders list and 1,230 offenders have succeeded in getting their names removed over the last six years. 632 of these have committed offences against children.
According to the Ministry of Justice, the number of sex offenders has risen 82% from 30,416 in 2006/2007 to 55,236 in 2016/2017. However, since 2012, anyone sentenced to more than 30 months for a sexual crime is no longer placed on the register for life. Instead they have the right to appeal after 15 years, or after 8 if a juvenile at time of the offence.
Does This Affect Our Children’s Safety?
So, what does this mean? Well, these people no longer have to report their movements to the police such as telling them if they go on holiday, move address or travel elsewhere in the UK. They also will no longer be subject to home visits.
Worryingly, many of the forces were unable to say whether any of those removed had gone on to re-offend.
Denise Fergus, mother of James Bulger, has commented on the findings, stating:
I was shocked to read the findings and I am disgusted that people are able to start a process to be removed from the sex offenders’ register.
“Many of these are for offences against children. That child and their family will be victims for life, so why should the offender have the ability to be removed?
“Surely if you are put on the sex offender register for life, your offences are so serious you should remain on there for life.”
Despite being removed from the register, these offenders will never be able to work with children or vulnerable adults due to thorough screening processes.
An Enhanced DBS Check will report on unspent and spent convictions, any inclusions on the Children or adult’s barred lists, inclusion on List 99, or any other relevant information held by local police forced (disclosed at the Chief Police Officer’s discretion).
How to Check Your Staff
If you are keen to screen your staff and ensure no offenders work in roles that are not suitable for them, get in touch with our team today or read more about our Enhanced DBS Checks.
