How disclosure levels will change
From 1 April 2025, the way we carry out disclosure checks will change.
This is part of us implementing the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020.
This page covers future changes. Visit mygov.scot for our live services.
How the levels are changing
Currently, we have 4 disclosure levels:
- basic
- standard
- enhanced
- PVG scheme
From 1 April 2025, the disclosure levels will change to:
- Level 1
- Level 2
- Level 2 with barred list check
- PVG scheme
How Level 1 disclosure will work
Level 1 disclosures will replace basic disclosure.
These will show:
- unspent convictions
- any notification requirements (instructions someone must follow if they're on the Sex Offenders Register)
How Level 2 disclosure will work
Level 2 disclosures will replace most standard disclosures, which are currently required for roles such as solicitors and accountants.
All Level 2 disclosures will 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 will 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 will require additional checks to show if you're barred from working with children or protected adults.
For most of these roles you'll need PVG scheme membership. But for certain activities, such as adopting a child, you'll need a Level 2 with barred list check instead. This will replace most enhanced disclosures.
Extra information on a Level 2 with barred list check
A Level 2 with barred list check will show the baseline information that's disclosed on all Level 2 disclosures.
It will also show:
- 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 will be a mandatory for people in a regulated role with children or protecting adults. For example, a teacher.
You'll need to join the PVG scheme and keep your membership updated.
Information on a PVG scheme disclosure
A PVG scheme disclosure will show:
- 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 will also be a product called a confirmation of PVG scheme membership. This replaces the statement of scheme membership. It will not include conviction information.
Getting prepared for the changes
We're working with stakeholders as we prepare to implement the changes.
We're also developing guidance and training around the Act.