The Scottish Government will continue to provide free Disclosure Scotland Protecting Vulnerable Group (PVG) scheme membership to volunteers following a public consultation on fee waivers and discounts in 2024.
The decision by Scottish Ministers recognises the vital role volunteers play in Scotland’s society with roles in care, health, sports, community and children’s recreational activities.
Membership of the PVG scheme provides assurance to employers and the public that a person can work safely with children and protected adults.
By continuing with the fee waiver, volunteers and charities can continue to consider new opportunities by accessing PVG membership without encountering any financial barriers in doing so.
For organisations, it will also provide many smaller charities a crucial lifeline in recruiting and retaining new staff and will help eliminate the barriers some people may face when applying for jobs because of affordability.
As well as retaining the fee waiver for qualifying voluntary organisations, fees for the new Level 1 and Level 2 disclosure products will remain at their broadly equivalent levels in 2025.
The decision to retain existing disclosure fees was taken after balancing several factors, including affordability for customers – particularly those on the lowest incomes.
This decision intends to support organisations providing vital services to children and protected adults by maintaining disclosure fee levels at the broadly equivalent levels they have been at since 2011.
Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise Natalie Don-Innes said: “By extending the PVG waiver on checks for volunteers and also freezing prices, we are supporting Scotland’s vital voluntary sector. Volunteering in regulated roles helps society face some of our biggest challenges from supporting children through care and sports, to addressing social isolation and loneliness.
“Keeping disclosure fees for everyone at the same level they have been at since 2011 recognises our desire to continue to support organisations providing vital services to children and protected adults.”
Chief Executive of Disclosure Scotland, Gerard Hart added: “Following our recent public consultation, we are delighted to announce the continuation of the PVG waiver dedicated solely to volunteers.
“Volunteers from all walks of life make an immense contribution in their local communities. They are often the unsung heroes of our society. By continuing to provide free PVG scheme membership, this will open up new avenues and equitable access for people looking for new careers and job opportunities, regardless of their background and financial means.
“For charitable organisations, this scheme will give them a helping hand and also ensure that they can offer opportunities and harness Scotland’s voluntary talent.”
