Hundreds of teachers and school staff suspended over child safety confusion
Schools have suspended hundreds of teachers and support staff amid confusion over child protection rules in England, an investigation by ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Radio 5 live Drive has found.
New guidance means the employees face disqualification because they live with someone who has a conviction for a violent or sexual crime.
Unions are urging the Government to clarify its advice as members warn of a system in 'meltdown'.
One teaching assistant, who wished to remain anonymous*, has been suspended and faces losing her job because of the new rules.
"Why should something from my husband's past affect me now" she said. "I'm being punished even though I have never committed a crime... It's just so unfair."
The Department for Education says the requirements are not new and that schools should 'use their judgement' in applying them.
*Her words have been spoken by an actress.
This clip is originally from 5 live Drive on January 20 2015.
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