With reference to the article in the Bolton Evening News on Friday, January 16 about all health staff facing checks after Soham and Bolton's checks "would have spotted Huntley", (Friday, December 19), it is reassuring to know that these Authorities take such measures for staff working with children, whether it's on a voluntary basis or as an employee.

It is my understanding of the Police Act 1997, which brought about the introduction of the Criminal Record Bureau, that an enhanced disclosure, which would reveal non conviction information, can only be applied for in relation to people "caring for, training, supervising or being in sole charge of those aged under 18, or of vulnerable adults".

This would not include cleaners or indeed caretakers. Perhaps the Act needs changing and it will be interesting to see if the current enquiry addresses this point.

I would like to make the point that voluntary groups and organisations that provide valuable services, filling gaps in statutory provision and fulfilling the criteria for enhanced disclosure do not enjoy the same access to the Criminal Record Bureau.

When the Government set up the Criminal Record Bureau they were proud to announce that checks for volunteers would be free.

However, because access for a check is by means of a "Registered or Umbrella" body, it in effect means that voluntary groups and organisations do not enjoy the privilege of "free checks". There is usually a substantial "administrative fee" to pay, if they are able to access the facility at all. It is important that voluntary groups have "free" access to the Criminal Record Bureau as the Government intended.

The tighter the procedures adopted by the statutory services become, the more attractive the voluntary sector will be seen for those who want access to vulnerable people for the wrong reasons.

However, the Volunteer Bureau always promote the principle that checking a person's past is only one tool in the tool kit for protecting vulnerable people.

We provide training and advice on other measures that need to be taken to reduce risk and harm, which is as important as relying on a CRB check.

Peter Sloan

Co-ordinator

Bolton Volunteer Bureau