http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-21205198

In some cases it's the employer who gets overzealous, though that might be because of how info is presented.

There are so many issues to complain about. Though it would be easier to stick to a few.


Why would you need to be CRB checked for a university course? Why not CRB checked if you do Theoretical Physics or Geology? Theology would definitely need it.


Should these have even been on his record as he was 11 years old at the time?

I would assume the check for the University was because he might be doing placements at local Schools or youth clubs as part of his course.

Yes but that could be done just prior to actual placements. Otherwise it is collecting the data for no apparent purpose.

If the placement is mandatory for the course then there's no point them getting a year or so into it if they were always going to be chucked off when they get to that point.

The problems with CRB checks:

- cost - often passed on to the applicant/employee; the company doing the check should pay for it
- time/hassle - as a doctor, over the last five years, I have completed around 7-8 CRB checks. Some in different trusts, despite having a clear CRB check three months ago.
- each CRB check takes 6-8 weeks minimum to process
- mainly used where there is contact with children
- often used inappropriately by employers as a criminal check.
- child molesters and the like can still get around the CRB and may not be picked up - look at Ian Huntley.