The Government has announced that it plans to introduce a Risk Protection Arrangement (RPA) which will be a central fund to meet claims from former pupils and non-employees of educational establishments. This is a voluntary risk pooling scheme and all academy trusts and multi academy trusts can opt into the RPA including academies, faith schools, free schools, university technical colleges, studio schools and private finance initiative academy trusts.
 
In general, commercial insurance cover is not available for pupils and non-employees of educational establishments and the RPA will provide cover against various risks, including death or injury as a result of exposure to asbestos. The RPA will come into effect from 1 September 2014. A list of the various risks the RPA will cover can be viewed at http://www.asbestosexposureschools.co.uk/pdfnewslinks/Appendix%20A-%20RPA%20Design.pdf.
 
For further information please click on the following link: http://www.asbestosexposureschools.co.uk/npaper%20links/Risk%20Protection%20Arrangement.htm.