Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme

What Is the PVG Scheme?

The Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme is a Scottish government programme that helps ensure people who are unsuitable to work with children and protected adults cannot do regulated roles with these groups.

It is a legal requirement to join the PVG scheme if you are going to do a regulated role. PVG scheme membership lasts for five years.

How It Works

• Criminal record checks: When an instructor applies to the scheme, Disclosure Scotland carries out enhanced criminal record checks.
• Disclosure: The instructor receives a disclosure showing the results of these checks.
• Continuous monitoring: Disclosure Scotland keeps checking the instructor's suitability to work with children and protected adults, until they leave the scheme.
• Barred lists: If checks show someone might be unsuitable, they are considered for listing on the barred lists. People on these lists cannot work in regulated roles.

Why This Matters for The DTC

Driving instruction involves one-to-one contact, practical lessons in vehicles, and direct communication with learners. Many of our learners are young people aged 17 and above, as well as adults who may be vulnerable.

By requiring every instructor to be a PVG member, we ensure:

• All instructors have passed enhanced criminal record checks
• Their suitability is continuously monitored
• Any concerns about harmful behaviour are reported to Disclosure Scotland
• Learners and their families can have confidence in their instructor

Our Commitment

The DTC takes safeguarding seriously. In addition to PVG membership, we have a comprehensive Safeguarding Policy that covers:

• Clear professional boundaries between instructors and learners
• Reporting procedures for concerns or disclosures
• Safe communication practices (phone, messaging, social media)
• In-vehicle safety and lone working guidelines
• Regular review and monitoring of safeguarding practices

Reporting Concerns

If you have any concerns about the conduct of a DTC instructor, or if you witness or experience harmful behaviour, please contact us immediately. We have a duty to report harmful behaviour to Disclosure Scotland and will take prompt action to investigate and address any concerns.