Protection of Vulnerable Groups Scheme


The Protection of Vulnerable Groups Scheme is a service offered by Disclosure Scotland to enable organisations in the public, private and Voluntary sectors to make more informed decisions when recruiting for regulated work involving vulnerable people. It achieves this by analysing individuals criminal records.
It is similar to the Disclosure and Baring Service in England and Wales.

Process

There are 4 different types of disclosure record available under the PVGS:
  • Scheme record
  • Existing scheme record
  • Scheme record group
  • Scheme membership statement
A PVGS member's certificate only shows information available on the date of the check, however the scheme continuously monitors individuals, receiving updates through Disclosure Scotland whenever a scheme member is convicted of an offence.
It is, however, advised that organisations should seek updates on their staff's PVGS membership status every three years.

History

The PVGS was introduced in response to the Bichard report which was undertaken after the Soham murders in 2002. As recommended by the report the scheme involves continuous updating into its checks. It came into full force in February 2011.