§ 68. Miss Fookesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will review the arrangements for ensuring that social workers who are guilty of sexual misconduct towards youngsters in their charge are never permitted to practise their profession again.
§ Mr. NewtonThe ultimate responsibility for satisfying themselves about the suitability of staff appointed to work with children rests on employing authorities, although we are able to help. From information known to the Department about relevant convictions, and that supplied by child care employers when members of staff resign or are dismissed in circumstances indicating they might endanger children's welfare if engaged to work with children in future, potential employers can be directed to previous employers for a reference or be informed about relevant convictions. Account is taken only of convictions and offences which suggest that children might be put at risk. Persons who apply for employment involving duties with children are not exempted under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 from revealing any previous convictions, and are required to do so.