The government recently announced forthcoming changes to the system of CRB checking for those working with children and vulnerable adults. Currently CRB checks are not ‘portable’ between organisations, meaning that some yoga teachers may have 3 or 4 duplicate certificates at any one time. It looks as though this will change next year, although please note that until it does the current system of renewal of your BWY CRB check (at Enhanced Disclosure level) remains in place.

Changes to the BWY Child Protection Policy

The only significant change for teachers is for those who teach Post-Natal or Mother and Baby Yoga. Until now, Post-Natal Yoga teachers have been required to undergo the full vetting check by the BWY, but this requirement has now been revised and Post-Natal teachers need only undergo a BWY CRB check (Enhanced Disclosure). The Wheel considers that in child protection terms, this is a sufficient safeguard, given that babies are always with their mothers during classes. Those people teaching dedicated classes to children should still apply to the EWM for the full vetting check, which consists of the completion of an application form, a self declaration form and providing two referees in addition to the CRB check.
 
Please note also that the Wheel does distinguish between Post-Natal/Mother and Baby Yoga and another activity known as Baby Yoga, which often goes hand in hand with Baby Massage. We consider that the latter is an activity distinct from yoga. Therefore those teaching in this related area should be aware that their BWY insurance does not cover them to teach Baby Yoga. Mother and Baby Yoga is covered, so long as the focus of the teaching is post-natal recovery.
 
If you at all unsure about your own teaching situation, always contact the Equity & Welfare Manager for advice.