Do I need a PVG?

For some volunteer roles, as with some jobs, you may need to be part of the Protection of Vulnerable Groups scheme (PVG scheme) to allow you to do it.

The Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme helps ensure people who are unsuitable to work with children and protected adults cannot do regulated roles. It's a membership scheme and Disclosure Scotland continuously checks members' criminal history information. It also keeps lists of people barred from regulated roles.

As of April 1st 2025, the list of roles included has now grown and become a legal requirement. This means you can get into legal trouble if you are supposed to have a PVG and don't. It is both your responsibility and the responsibility of the organisation you volunteer with to make sure this is done correctly. Not every volunteer role requires a PVG. Be sure to ask if you are not clear!

For more information, go to Disclosure Act update - special edition! - Disclosure Scotland or email infobox@thirdsectorpk.org.uk.