Why does Lighthouse Hazlemere need an Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure (CRBD) if I have already got one less than three years old from another organisation?

Lighthouse Hazlemere intends to ensure its staff and volunteer screening processes, under its Child Protection Policy, is as thorough as is possible to ensure children’s safety and enjoyment at Lighthouse events.

This is why in addition to personal references, Lighthouse requires an Enhanced CRBD for all staff and volunteers working with children at its events. The Trustees have decided that this Lighthouse CRBD will be valid for three years, after which a new application will be required.

Existing CRBDs themselves are not considered proof of identity by the CRB, only the process of obtaining one, which seeks to prove identity through personal documentation checks at application, proves identity. Also, the process of applying for a CRBD only checks the criminal record history etc. of an individual at a point in time and may therefore become invalidated after that.

Lighthouse could ask for written consent of an existing CRBD holder to allow Lighthouse to request written confirmation from the registered body that processed it, confirming that the CRBD was indeed issued (proof of authenticity of the CRBD Certificate). However, this would still not constitute proof of identity of the holder and so Lighthouse would have to undertake a separate proof of identity exercise, and record this in a similar to the CRBD application. Additionally, the registered body may not be willing to divulge, or confirm, such personal information even with the individuals consent.

As mentioned above, Lighthouse takes up references for each staff member or volunteer helper. Lighthouse, which works mainly with volunteer help, seeks to minimise duplication of effort, consistent with its intention to provide the best possible protection for children.

Consequently, it believes the best way to cover all screening requirements is through a combination of references, Enhanced CRBD, and through individual leader and helper vigilance throughout its events.

Lighthouse thanks you for your co-operation in this important part of its work.

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