We have been made aware of the fact that Yesmap's (now disabled) Matrix server was entered under false pretenses by the hostile editor of a supposed "MAP" website some months ago. While some screenshots/logs have been shared (including those of members suffering from mental-health and legal problems), no personally identifying information has been leaked. We are currently compiling a dossier of malicious and criminal activity we believe the publishers of this website are responsible for, and will soon publish and promote it.
List 99
List 99 (aka Children's Barred List, or Information held under Section 142 of the Education Act 2002), is a secret UK Government register of child sex offenders and other individuals who are not allowed to teach. Managed by the Department for Education and Skills, List 99 does not require that a teacher be convicted of sex offences to be included. For example, a teacher can be put on there if convicted of theft, fraud, drug offences, corruption, GBH, affray, murder or subversive activities. Medical reasons for placement on the list include alcoholism, drug addiction and mental illness (e.g. Schizophrenia).
Rise in numbers
- "Official figures show there are now 12,992 individuals on List 99, [...] up from 4,921 in 2007 and 8,036 last year."[1]
The rise can probably be attributed to a change in the rules (28th February 2007), meaning that anybody aged 18+ who has been convicted or cautioned for a child sex offence must be added, regardless of whether they have ever worked with children.
Controversy and demise
Ruth Kelly, the former Education Secretary almost lost her job after her department had to admit that "88 convicted sex offenders had been left off List 99 and cleared to work in schools."
According to the Telegraph:
- "List 99 is now being scrapped and responsibility for vetting and barring those who wish to work or volunteer with children is being taken on by a new body, the Independent Safeguarding Authority."