Minister praises Disclosure Scotland for safeguarding work during visit
Siobhian Brown, Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise, visited Disclosure Scotland on Monday 3 August.
Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise met staff and heard about the organisation's work protecting children, young people and vulnerable adults across Scotland.
Disclosure Scotland’s Chief Executive, Gerard Hart, explained the importance of the visit:
“I invited Ms Brown to visit us and learn more about what we do and how it aligns with the Scottish Government’s wider vision. The changes we have brought in through the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020, have propelled us forward into a much more positive position to ensure our services remain at the forefront of safeguarding in Scotland, while preparing us for the changes that the Public Sector Reform Strategy will bring.”
During the visit, the Minister acknowledged the vital contribution of everyone at Disclosure Scotland and their consistent record of delivering essential safeguarding functions alongside major policy and digital change programmes.
She highlighted the organisation's management of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme, including the ongoing monitoring processes and the National Barring Service, which makes a fundamental difference in protecting children, young people and vulnerable adults.
The Minister also recognised the impact Disclosure Scotland has on employers, the voluntary sector and the wider economy through a service that gives organisations the confidence to recruit safely, while helping people access employment and rehabilitation opportunities.
Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise, Siobhian Brown, said:
"I want to express my gratitude for everything you have accomplished so far, and for the dedication and professionalism you bring to your work each day. Looking to the future, the reforms you are helping to implement will further strengthen our safeguarding infrastructure and support our broader goals: improving outcomes for children and young people, delivering excellent public services and building a fairer Scotland."