The new Protection of Vulnerable Groups Scheme will go live on 30 Novermber 2010.  From that date, anyone who starts to work with children and young people will need to apply for membeship of the PVG Scheme.  The procedure will be very similar to applying for a Disclosure at present.  Once you are a member, it is intended that further checks on your criminal record can be made without the need for another full Disclosure form to be filled in.  This should be very helpful for those who volunteer with more than one organisation, and for repeat Disclosures within SU.  Those who are already working with children and young people will join the Scheme after 30 November 2011. 

Please pray for the smooth introduction of the new Scheme!

Now is the time to think about your options for the next academic year. Have you finished your exams? Have you finished University? Are you looking for a year out in Christian mission? SU Scotland's Gap Year offers an opportunity to work with young people in a variety of settings. Lead activities at a residential centre; work with school groups at Lendrick Muir or Altnacriche; encourage SU groups alongside a local SU worker  - the opportunities are endless. For more information go to www.suscotland.org.uk/gapyear

Changes are planned for the Disclosure system in Scotland, similar to the impending changes to the CRB criminal record checking system England and Wales, about which there have been comments in the press.  The legislation for the new system was contained in the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. In the new system in Scotland, anyone applying for a Disclosure to work with children will become members of the new PVG (Protection of Vulnerable Groups) scheme.  Once you are a member, it is intended that further checks on your criminal record can be made without the need for another Disclosure form to be filled in.  This should be very helpful for those who volunteer with more than one organisation, and for repeat Disclosures within SU.

The new system is scheduled to come into operation in Scotland late in 2010.  Disclosures will continue to be free for volunteers.  Please contact Chris Brett if you have any queries.