Volunteer Scotland Disclosure Services (VSDS) is reaching out to inform organisations about the progress of the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020 and the important changes that will take effect on 1st April 2025. With less than six months remaining to prepare, it is crucial for organisations to understand the upcoming adjustments and how they may impact their operations.
Key Updates
- Disclosure Scotland Consultation Update The public consultation conducted by Disclosure Scotland on fee discounts and waivers ran from 5th March to 28th May 2024, garnering over 1,200 responses. A consultation report outlining the analysis of key themes will soon be published on the Disclosure Scotland website. Decisions regarding future fee arrangements are anticipated to be made in February 2025.
- Local Authority Referral Powers As of 30th September 2024, new referral powers for local authorities and Integration Joint Boards have been introduced under the Disclosure Act. This change aims to enhance the safeguarding of children and protected adults, particularly in environments where no other organisation can make a referral.
- Changes Coming on 1st April 2025 The Disclosure Act will improve Scotland’s disclosure system by removing unnecessary barriers for individuals with convictions seeking employment. Key changes include:
- Introduction of various levels and types of disclosures.
- Transformation of “regulated work” into “regulated roles,” making the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme mandatory for those working with children or protected adults.
- Enhanced control for applicants over their information during the disclosure process.
- Future Changes Post-April 2025 From late 2025, Disclosure Scotland will have the ability to impose conditions on PVG scheme members under consideration for listing. By 1st April 2026, lifetime membership of the PVG scheme will transition to time-limited membership, requiring renewal every five years.
What Can Organisations Do Now?
- Assess Regulated Roles: Organisations should review their current roles to determine if they qualify as regulated roles under the new Disclosure Act. New roles may be added, so it is essential to stay informed about these changes.
- Update Data: Ensure that your data regarding PVG scheme members is current and compliant with data protection legislation. Notify Disclosure Scotland if a PVG member stops working in a regulated role.
- Stay Informed: VSDS will continue to provide advice, guidance, and support through training sessions and written materials. Regular Act Information Sessions will be held, and we encourage everyone to attend.
Stay Connected
To keep up with developments regarding the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020, follow Volunteer Scotland on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. For more detailed information, visit the Disclosure Scotland website and consider signing up for their quarterly e-bulletin.
For further enquiries, please contact VSDS at complianceandtraining@volunteerscotland.org.uk.
