More than 600 reviews completed in first year of simpler disclosure review process
Introduced under the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020, the disclosure review process allows people to apply to have certain spent convictions reviewed for possible removal from their disclosure. The changes were designed to make the process simpler and more accessible.
Previously, individuals seeking to have eligible convictions removed from their disclosure had to apply through the sheriff court. Stakeholder feedback highlighted that the process could be difficult to navigate and costly for applicants.
The new process enables people to apply directly to Disclosure Scotland when they receive a disclosure containing conviction information that is eligible for review. Applicants can provide information about their circumstances to support their application, helping ensure that decisions are based on the facts of each individual case.
Once a review has been completed, Disclosure Scotland will decide whether the conviction information should remain on the disclosure or be removed. If an applicant disagrees with the decision, they can request a further review by the independent reviewer.
Between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026, 606 reviews were completed under the new arrangements. During the same period, 56 adulthood conviction cases progressed to review by the independent reviewer.
The review process forms part of the wider reforms to Scotland's disclosure system, helping to ensure a fair and proportionate approach to the disclosure of conviction information while making the review process easier for applicants to access and understand.
The review process also includes the ability for individuals to apply for a review of Other Relevant Information (ORI) included on a Level 2 disclosure. When the applicant requests a review of ORI, Police Scotland must reconsider whether the information remains relevant and should continue to be disclosed, taking account of any representations, the applicant makes.
In addition, spent childhood convictions and children's hearing outcomes are reviewed by Disclosure Scotland before a Level 2 or PVG scheme disclosure is issued. Disclosure Scotland assesses whether this information is relevant and ought to be included, ensuring childhood information is considered before it is disclosed. Where Disclosure Scotland decide to disclose childhood information, the applicant can apply to the independent reviewer to request a review.
People who receive a disclosure containing information that is eligible for review will be notified and provided with information on how to apply.
To find out more about the review process visit our website. You can also read guidance on the review process.