What is going on?
Due to the software error, the screening of a group of individuals in childcare has not been conducted properly. This means that not everyone for whom a possible criminal offense has been identified has been assessed for whether this poses a risk to the safety of children in care. Once the software error became known, immediate action was taken. A measure was implemented to ensure that the screening for all individuals is continuously conducted correctly. An investigation has also begun into the reports from 2018 (302) that were not processed correctly and where individuals may still be working in childcare. The 302 reports involve 101 possible crimes and 201 violations (which is a lesser offense such as public drunkenness or minor traffic violations).
In the investigation, the crimes were examined first. There were 3 signals related to sexual offenses. Fortunately, no direct risks were identified by Justis. This means that for these individuals, based on the signal, there is no risk for performing their duties and no further action is needed.
The assessment of other crimes and violations has largely been completed. Of the signals regarding crimes, 5 are still under investigation. Everything is being done to finalize these assessments as quickly as possible. Based on the assessments, it has been found that there are risks for the execution of the function for 1 individual. A report has been sent immediately so that the holder can place this individual on non-active status.
What falls under continuous screening?
A signal is issued when someone is convicted of a crime or if there is a serious suspicion that someone has committed one. A signal from continuous screening is based on serious or a series of less serious offenses. It is then assessed whether this fact poses a risk for performing the function. The question is whether the safety of children may be at stake. The assessment looks at sexual offenses, violent crimes, weapon and drug offenses, and less serious offenses when they have been committed repeatedly, such as theft or traffic violations.
How is it assessed whether a signal is a reason to revoke the VOG?
The assessment of a signal is done by Justis. They assess whether the misconduct in question (if repeated) poses a risk to the safety of children in childcare. Justis takes into account the nature of the facts, the time elapsed, and the amount of judicial data.
How safe is childcare?
It is crucial that children are safe in childcare. In addition to continuous screening, there are various measures to ensure safety.
For instance, the 4-eyes principle applies in childcare. This means that there must always be a second person who can observe or listen in. This 4-eyes principle is intended to minimize the chance of abuse or other undesirable situations.
Additionally, there is an obligation to report suspicions of sexual abuse or mistreatment during care immediately. This measure contributes to the safety of childcare.
Therefore, multiple measures are in place to ensure that childcare is a safe place.
How do I know if this is happening in my childcare?
Everything is being done to finalize the assessments of the signals regarding possible crimes as quickly as possible. If these final assessments reveal that there is still an individual working in childcare who poses a risk to the safety of children, the childcare organization will be informed immediately in the usual manner, via the GGD as the supervisory authority.
What should a childcare organization do if a report comes in?
If a childcare organization or the childminder receives a signal from the GGD, it requests the individual to apply for a new VOG. Until then, the individual is placed on non-active status. If no new VOG is registered in the personnel register, this is grounds for dismissal. Without a valid VOG, one may not work in childcare.