On 30 November 2010, the Scottish Government will introduce a new membership scheme to replace and improve upon the current disclosure arrangements for people who work with vulnerable groups.
The Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme (PVG Scheme), which delivers on the provisions outlined in the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) (Scotland) Act 2007 will:
* help to ensure that those who have regular contact with children and protected adults through paid and unpaid work do not have a known history of harmful behaviour,
* be quick and easy to use, reducing the need for PVG Scheme members to complete a detailed application form every time a disclosure check is required,
* strike a balance between proportionate protection and robust regulation and make it easier for employers to determine who they should check to protect their client group.
school pupilsThe PVG Scheme is Scotland’s response to the principal recommendation of the Bichard Inquiry Report which was undertaken following the tragic murders in Soham in 2002. This recommendation called for a registration system for all those who work with children and vulnerable adults in the UK that would confirm that there is no known reason why an individual should not work with these client groups.
The Scottish Government is committed to helping local communities flourish and become stronger, safer places to live. It has built upon what has been learned from current disclosure and disqualification services in Scotland to develop an efficient membership scheme that will strengthen protection for vulnerable groups and reduce bureaucracy.
Morre information will be posted on this once ABS receives further information.
