Frequently asked questions

What is the scheme?

The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme enables parents, guardians or third parties to enquire whether a person who has access to a child is a registered sex offender or whether they pose a risk to that child(ren).

How does it work?

Any member of the public can approach Kent Police to apply under the Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme for information regarding a specific person who has contact with a child(ren). The police will process the application, but disclosure is not guaranteed. Even if there are no firm grounds for suspicion, the applicant can trigger an investigation to find out if the subject (the person they are asking about) has a known history that means they might be of risk to children. Third parties with concerns (e.g. grandparents or neighbours) about an individual who has contact with children are also invited to use the scheme. However, where appropriate, disclosure will only be given to parents and guardians or those best placed to protect a child.

How do people apply for information?

They should either visit any police station in Kent or call 01622 690690.

Does disclosure already take place?

Yes it does. Under the Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) or under the Safeguarding Children Arrangements, information is disclosed to an individual or group where it is felt necessary or proportionate to protect children from abuse. MAPPA is the process through which the police, probation and prison services work together with other agencies to manage the risks posed by sex offenders and violent offenders living in the community in order to protect the public.

The Safeguarding Children Arrangements involve a number of agencies working together to promote children’s welfare and help protect children from abuse. Disclosure may also take place under the Safeguarding Children Arrangements where Childrens Services may disclose information held by the authorities in a managed way in order to protect children. 

How are registered sexual offenders usually managed?

The police have a statutory responsibility to manage registered sex offenders. All registered sex offenders are subject to MAPPA procedures. MAPPA aims to reduce the risk posed by offenders to the community.

Will the subject know they are named in an application and who made the request?

Confidentiality will be maintained unless a disclosure takes place. If a disclosure does take place the subject may be informed that the applicant is to receive a disclosure about them. Risk assessments will take place for each disclosure.

If disclosure takes place can applicants warn family and friends about the sexual or violent offender?

Information about disclosure must be treated as confidential. It is only being given so that steps can be taken to protect children. Applicants must not share this information with anyone else unless they have spoken to the police or the person who gave them the information and the police have agreed that it can be shared. In considering disclosure, all relevant persons will be informed.

What will be done to stop offenders becoming victims of vigilantism?

The police and other agencies are in regular contact with offenders and the disclosure process will be carefully managed. If anyone feels they are likely to become a victim of vigilantism or have been targeted, they should contact the police. In all cases of disclosure, the risks to the offender and the community impact will be considered, however the protection of children will be the key determining factor.

What happens if someone tries to make a false application?

Making a false declaration in an attempt to procure the disclosure of personal data to which someone does not have a lawful right of access is an offence under the Data Protection Act 1998. This offence is punishable by an unlimited fine at crown court. Therefore, anyone providing false information in registering their interest or misusing any information disclosed, for example, by engaging in vigilantism on their own behalf, or on behalf of others, or the harassment of sex offenders, would be subject to police intervention and potential prosecution for any offences identified.

Further information

Two booklets are available to view (both are PDFs):

• Keeping Children Safe - Your Right to Ask (3,927kb)
  Information to help you keep your child safe from sexual abuse.

• Keeping Children Safe - Your Right to Ask (3,225kb)
  The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme. This booklet includes advice on abuse, what to look out for as a parent/carer and the steps you can take to help protect your child.