But we ask for caution as its national roll-out begins this month. Child sexual abuse is an emotive subject and while the pilots have handled the issues sensitively and carefully, our concern is that as it rolls out nationally there could be less attention to detail. Also, a scheme like this one cannot work in isolation to protect children from abuse.
It's not uncommon for sex offenders to be brought to justice many years after they began committing their crimes. Some may never face trial or criminal investigation, which means there could be people in a local community who pose a risk to children but do not have a police record. The scheme will not be able to identify these people, and it must not give false reassurance to adults whose concerns may appear unfounded.
We know that some children still suffer sexual abuse in fear and in silence; others speak out and are not believed. Making sure young people know how and where to seek help for themselves is as important as adults knowing how to act on their own concerns for a child.
The scheme could also put a disproportionate focus on 'stranger danger'. Research shows that people who are related or known to the child are most likely to pose a risk to their safety. We remain concerned that a fear of vigilante action may drive some sex offenders underground, making it impossible for the police and probation service to keep track of them.
However, despite these concerns, the NSPCC is in favour of the scheme. It may not be a magic solution. But if it is carefully monitored and properly resourced, alongside robust local offender management arrangements, it can be another part of the armoury which helps to keep children safe.
Any adult can talk their worries through with our NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.
