law

[capricorn62]

can anyone tell me if Father Christmas ie, to work one evening giving out presents to small children, need CRB checking?

[ummmm]

I would say so.

[Buenchico]

The simple answer is 'No'.

Such an activity doesn't fall within existing legislation relating to regular activities, involving minors, of over 2 hours duration, such as play schools and organised holiday activities. (Those type of activities require registration with the local authority, which in turn involves a requirement for staff to be CRB checked).

At present, less formal activities with young people don't result in any statutory obligation to have adults CRB checked. Of course, organisations such as the Scouts can, and do, make their own rules but there's no legal requirement for them to do so. Further, if someone's CRB check reveals criminal convictions, it's entirely up to the organisation to decide whether they will permit that person to work with children. (Under the present rules, the CRB can't directly ban anyone from working with children).

The new 'vetting and barring' scheme will give the CRB the direct power to bar someone from working with children. However (although certain measures apply from 12/10/09) it doesn't come fully into effect until late next year. Even then, it will only apply to regular contact with young people. 'One off' activities, such as the one you refer to, will not be covered.

Chris

[kinell]

of course he will have to wear a high-visibility jacket and undergo risk assessment training first

[ummmm]

But it's not one off Chris....santa's in the shopping centres for weeks on end.

[Buenchico]

Ummmm:
The REAL Santa has to call on about half a billion kids in one night. (Most of them live where UK laws don't apply anyway). That hardly seems to qualify as 'regular' or 'prolonged' contact, under the 'vetting & barring' rules! ;-)

Poor old Santa has enough problems trying to find his way into modern houses with no chimneys, without having to worry about the Old Bill asking him to 'accompany them to the station' (while, no doubt, Rudolph gets clamped by 'jobsworth' local council parking officials).

Chris

[ummmm]

pmsl....good answer :-)

[factor-fiction]

How does the real Santa get round those tachograph and working time regulations?

[Buenchico]

Factor30:
I was under the impression that Santa is self-employed. If so, the Working Time Regulations don't apply to him ;-)

[sara3]

elf & safety ;o)

[capricorn62]

Well thanks for all that banter, I asked a simple question & got a laugh too!!!
Surely his Bright Red outfit is High vis enough Kinell ?
Think Beunchico maybe right as Santa will only be working for 2 hours. What does Santa get out of it?
Hot n sweaty under all those clothes, itching face, sore throat from all that ho,ho hoing , earache, not forgetting having to pay for those reindeer to be fed/watered & all that manure!!!!! Must I go on?