Newly refined definitions of regulated activity came into effect from 10th September 2012. The new definition will see 'supervised volunteers' removed from scope of regulated activity, and therefore not eligible for an Enhanced Disclosure Certificate with Barred List information. As such, the government was required to produce statutory guidance for organisations to support them in determining their supervision arrangements - final guidance attached.

Attached also for your information is the Arts Council of Northern Ireland’s Briefing Paper in relation to the changes to vetting and barring arrangements in Northern Ireland.

I am aware that over the coming weeks Volunteer Now – Our Duty to Care Team will be updating their Safeguarding training and publications in light of the changes, I will advise in due course.

Arts Council Briefing Paper ( PDF )

Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety Letter ( PDF )