The Protection of Vulnerable Groups Scheme (PVGS) 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.[1][2] It achieves this by analysing individuals criminal records.[3]
It is similar to the Disclosure and Baring Service in England and Wales.
Process
editThere are 4 different types of disclosure record available under the PVGS:
- Scheme record (for new joiners to the scheme)
- Existing scheme record (for those already with the scheme who want to work with a different vulnerable group)
- Scheme record group (for those already with the scheme who are joining a new organisation but working with the same vulnerable group)
- Scheme membership statement (for those employing others to partake in regular work, or self employed individuals partaking in regulated work)[4]
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.[5]
History
editThe PVGS was introduced in response to the Bichard report which was undertaken after the Soham murders in 2002.[6] As recommended by the report the scheme involves continuous updating into its checks. It came into full force in February 2011.[7]
References
edit- ^ "Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme". www.mygov.scot. Retrieved 2024-01-14.
- ^ "Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme". Youth Scotland. Retrieved 2024-01-15.
- ^ "What is the PVG Scheme in Scotland?". www.theaccessgroup.com. Retrieved 2024-01-14.
- ^ "The Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme". www.citizensadvice.org.uk. Retrieved 2024-01-14.
- ^ "PVG". www.careinspectorate.com. Retrieved 2024-01-15.
- ^ Government, Scottish (July 2011). "Protection of Vulnerable Groups Scheme and Self Directed Support" (PDF). Care Inspectorate. Retrieved 2024-01-14.
- ^ "Protection of vulnerable groups scheme Information - Adult Protection". www.adultprotectionsouthlanarkshire.org.uk. Retrieved 2024-01-14.