How disclosure levels will change
On 1 April 2025, the way we carry out disclosure checks changed.
This was part of us implementing the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020.
How the levels changed
There used to be 4 disclosure levels:
- basic
- standard
- enhanced
- PVG scheme
From 1 April 2025, the disclosure levels changed to:
- Level 1
- Level 2
- Level 2 with barred list check
- PVG scheme
How Level 1 disclosure work
Level 1 disclosures replaced basic disclosure. These show unspent convictions.
How Level 2 disclosure work
Level 2 disclosures replaced most standard disclosures, which are currently required for roles such as solicitors and accountants.
All Level 2 disclosures show information on unspent and certain spent convictions and other relevant information held by the police.
Baseline information disclosed on all Level 2 disclosures
All Level 2 checks show:
- unspent convictions
- certain spent convictions
- certain spent childhood convictions and children’s hearings outcomes
- any notification requirements (instructions someone must follow if they're on the Sex Offenders Register)
- unspent cautions (but not a childhood caution)
- other relevant information held by the police
Level 2 with barred list check
Some roles require additional checks to show if you're barred from working with children or protected adults.
For most of these roles you need PVG scheme membership. But for certain activities, such as adopting a child, you need a Level 2 with barred list check instead. This replaces most enhanced disclosures.
Extra information on a Level 2 with barred list check
A Level 2 with barred list check shows the baseline information that's disclosed on all Level 2 disclosures.
It also shows:
- if you're on the barred lists for work with children or adults
- if you're under consideration for inclusion on the barred lists for work with children or adults
- if you have had any prescribed civil court orders
How the PVG scheme will work
The PVG scheme is a legal requirement for people in a regulated role with children or protecting adults. For example, a teacher.
You need to join the PVG scheme and keep your membership updated.
Information on a PVG scheme disclosure
A PVG scheme disclosure shows:
- the baseline information shown for all Level 2 disclosures
- that you're a member of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme
- if you're under consideration for inclusion on the barred lists for work with children or adults
- if you have had any prescribed civil court orders
This disclosure level is known as a 'Level 2 with PVG' in legislation.
Replacing the statement of scheme membership
There is also a product called a confirmation of PVG scheme membership. This replaces the statement of scheme membership. It does not include conviction information.
Help
We're working with stakeholders to help them with the changes.
We have also developed guidance and training around the Act.