Police Scotland have created an online application form under the existing Sex Offender Community Disclosure Scheme to improve accessibility for an initial application to be made under the Scheme.
The online application form is available on the Police Scotland website and allows any member of the public to submit an application direct if they have a concern about a person’s access or contact with a child.
The community disclosure scheme gives parents; carers or guardians a more formal mechanism for requesting information about someone involved in their family life, specifically it they are concerned that the person might be a child sexual offender.
The Scheme also provides for any other person who is concerned about a person’s access to someone else’s child to apply albeit only the parent; carer or guardian can be given information under the Scheme.
If the person subject of the application has been convicted of a sexual offence against a child; has a conviction for, or information is held which is assessed may put a child’s safety at risk, then consideration must be given to share information with the parent; carer or guardian which is necessary and proportionate to enable them to protect the child. For the purposes of the Sex Offender Community Disclosure Scheme a child is under 18 years of age.
Members of the public are notified that the online application will generate a proportionate and timely response. The online form makes it clear if they have any concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing they should contact their local social work services or Police Scotland on 101 or if they suspect a child is in immediate danger they should call 999.
How to make an application:
Alternatively, call Police Scotland on 101 and state that your call is in relation to The Sex Offender Community Disclosure Scheme/Keeping Children Safe.
On receipt of your call, you will be transferred to a police officer who will discuss your concerns. This number is available 24 hours a day.
You can find more information on the Sex Offender Community Disclosure Scheme on the Scottish Government Website.
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
