Briefing [25] Return to Practice (96KB 
*) August 2004 (Revised October 2007)
This briefing has recently been updated to reflect the current situation in health and social care.
People who work with children or vulnerable adults have to undergo a check that they have a clean record with the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). This is normally the responsibility of your employer.
If you are an independent practitioner and you work with children or vulnerable adults you need to arrange your own CRB check. You may also need to do this if your employer is an independent provider.
- Visit the CRB website for full details of umbrella organisations that will process the check for you. Umbrella organisations include Age Concern and Care Check.
People who work with vulnerable adults need to be aware of the Department of Health’s Protection of Vulnerable Adults Scheme (POVA) which applies in England and Wales. Your employer must check that you are not on this list before employing you if you are going to work with vulnerable adults.
The BAOT/COT is currently preparing more resources to support occupational therapists in returning to practice and asks members to be proactive in creating more favourable conditions for occupational therapists returning to practice after a career break.
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