The PVG scheme

The Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme is managed by Disclosure Scotland. It helps ensure people who are unsuitable to work with children and protected adults cannot do regulated work with these vulnerable groups.

How the PVG scheme works

If you're going to do regulated work your employer may ask you to apply to join the PVG scheme. Disclosure Scotland carries out criminal record checks when you apply.

It shares the results of these checks with you and the organisation that is providing regulated work. Organisations can use this information to help decide if you're right for the role you're applying for. 

Disclosure Scotland keeps a list of people who are barred from working with children and protected adults. If the checks show you might be unsuitable for regulated work, you'll be considered for listing.

After you join the PVG scheme

Disclosure Scotland keeps checking your suitability to continue work with children or protected adults. If they find new information which means you're unsuitable to work with children or protected adults, they'll bar you from regulated work. They'll also remove you from the PVG scheme and tell any employers listed on your account that you've been barred.

Keeping your membership up to date

You should let Disclosure Scotland know if your personal details change, such as your name or address. This means they can contact you quickly if needed and information is sent to the right place.

If you change job your new employer may ask you to complete an existing PVG scheme member application. This will allow them to get an up to date certificate. They'll also be added to your PVG membership account. 

Reporting harmful behaviour

If an organisation has employees or volunteers doing regulated work, they have a duty to report harmful behaviour to Disclosure Scotland. If Disclosure Scotland receives information which suggests someone may be unsuitable for regulated work, they'll start the consideration for listing process.

How long does PVG membership last?

A PVG scheme member's certificate only shows the information available on the day it was created. Membership of the scheme lasts for life though. Members are continuously checked, unless they decide to leave the scheme.