Sex offenders scheme rolls out across the UK but not in Bristol

A new scheme aiming to improve the protection of children from child sex offenders, is to be rolled out across the UK but will not include the Avon and Somerset Constabulary covering Bristol.

The Child Sex Offender Disclosure scheme has completed a 12 month pilot run in four police forces, during which it saved more than 60 children from potential abuse.

Now rolling out across 18 more police force areas from August this year, members of the public will be able to make enquires about people who are in contact with their children.

The scheme is expected to extend to all police forces by the end of March 2011.

Home Secretary Alan Johnson said: “I am determined to do all I can to protect children and families from sex offenders. The UK already has one of the most robust systems in the world for the management of sex offenders, the new scheme will build on this ensuring more children are kept safe.”

Parents will be able to request an individual who has access to their children is checked for records of child sex offences and if they pose a risk of causing serious harm to the child concerned.