New NHS staff to face criminal record checks

All eligible new recruits into the NHS must undergo checks on their criminal record under a new measure to increase patient safety announced today.

From early next year, Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks will become mandatory for every new recruit with access to patients as part of their normal duties.

Staff requiring checks will include all medical, nursing and other staff with direct patient contact, as well as staff whose work provides access to patients, such as cleaners and maintenance workers.

The checks will trawl information held on the Police National Computer and the records held by the Department for Education and Skills to help NHS employers assess the suitability of candidates.

There is currently a considerable variation in the checking policy of NHS employers. At present, only staff who work with children are legally obliged to have CRB checks.

Health Minister John Hutton said: "We want to do all we can to ensure the safety of patients receiving treatment on the NHS. Checks on the criminal records of new recruits will help us achieve this aim. The security of patients must always be our top priority.

"The results of the checks will help NHS employers make safer recruitment decisions and give the public extra piece of mind."

Many NHS Trusts already have a policy of carrying out checks on all eligible new staff and today's measure is intended to reinforce existing good practice, the health department added.

(gmcg/mb)