Five-year PVG scheme membership now in place

From 1 April 2026, Disclosure Scotland has introduced a new five-year membership period for the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme. The new membership model replaces lifetime membership for PVG scheme members. This change ensures scheme membership remains current and supports safeguarding by keeping information up to date. 

What has changed? 

• PVG scheme membership now lasts for five years from the date an individual joins or makes an existing application. 
• Anyone who applies to join the PVG scheme will automatically enter a five-year membership. 
• Renewal will be required every five years to remain a PVG scheme member. 

The renewal process is separate from applying for a disclosure. Renewals will be completed through the individual’s online account, with an offline option available for anyone who cannot use the digital service. 

Existing PVG scheme members 

If you are already a PVG scheme member, you do not need to take any action. 

Existing members will move from lifetime membership to the five-year membership in phases. This work will take place over time and will be done by Disclosure Scotland. Individuals will be contacted directly. 

There is no change to the existing PVG scheme application process for organisations or applicants. 

Going forward 

Organisations should continue to: 

• submit PVG scheme applications as normal 
• notify us when an individual stops carrying out a regulated role 
• ensure their records interest in PVG scheme members remains up to date 

Removing interest in individuals who no longer need PVG scheme membership helps reduce unnecessary administration and ensures organisations only receive updates relevant to their workforce. 

Chief Executive’s statement 

Read a statement from Disclosure Scotland’s Chief Executive on the implementation of the five-year PVG scheme membership as part of the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020. 

Find out more 

You can read more about applying to the PVG scheme and managing membership on our website. If you have questions about the five-year membership, please contact us through our usual channels.