'Costly rules' threaten work experience placements

From 12 October 2009 people working with children or vulnerable adults will have to have been checked in a process costing £64. The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) warned firms may cancel the placements because they cannot afford to have staff checked by the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).

In a letter to Schools Secretary Ed Balls, John Wright, FSB National Chairman, said: "Work experience placements enable schoolchildren to appreciate how business operates, the range of opportunities available and the skills required. They are absolutely vital in ensuring young people get an early understanding of the world of work.

"Our fear is that fewer and fewer employers will be willing to offer work experience placements once this scheme is introduced."

The checks will be required for people who are part of any regulated activity, which involves contact with children and vulnerable adults. Applicants will be assessed using the data gathered by the Criminal Records Bureau from lists including the PoCA - the Protection of Children Act list.

Mr Wright added: "The intentions of the scheme are of course absolutely sound, but there must be a way of protecting young people who may be at risk without diminishing the opportunities of thousands of school pupils every year."