The PVG scheme was launched on 28 February 2011.
It is expected to take four years to phase in the PVG Scheme.
In the first year after the PVG Scheme launch, Disclosure Scotland is dealing primarily with scheme membership applications for people who:
- are new to regulated work with vulnerable groups
- have changed posts or
- have had some other change of circumstances requiring confirmation of scheme membership
Disclosure Scotland recognises that some organisations for legislative, regulatory or operational reasons may have a requirement to bring some of their existing staff onto PVG Scheme membership ahead of the planned retrospective checking phase which will begin in year two. Where this is necessary or desirable, agreement will be reached on a case by case basis between Disclosure Scotland and the organisation.
Applications to join the scheme, in the first year will continue to be made and responded to on paper.
In the year following 28 February 2011, the new secure, electronic PVG Scheme system will become available which means that organisations, groups and individuals will be able to interact with the scheme online.
Shortly after the electronic system goes live it is expected that existing members of the vulnerable groups' workforce will begin to join the PVG Scheme. This is expected to take three years and Disclosure Scotland will manage the retrospective checking process, in partnership with groups and organisations, to minimise any administrative burden.