child protection

Recent media coverage of the Government’s new Vetting and Barring Scheme for those working closely with children under 18 and vulnerable adults has caused some concern amongst cinema operators.

A particular often question asked of the CEA is whether cinema staff – particularly those working during mother and baby screenings or running matinee performances for young people – need to be registered under the Government's Vetting and Barring scheme or to be Criminal Records Bureau-checked.

In response, the CEA has produced a guidance note for members which can be downloaded here.

The note confirms that cinema staff are not required to be vetted under the scheme and also offers advice about the existing Criminal Records Bureau checking regime.

In 2010, the Government announced plans to halt further roll-out of the scheme pending further considerations. Once the outcome of these are known, the CEA will amend its advice accordingly as necessary.

This advice is not intended to be comprehensive. If you have a specific query, please contact us.