Update on Key PVG requirements following the Disclosure Scotland Act 2020

RYA Scotland & RYA have released an update to the guidance on PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) checks, providing further clarity for sailing clubs, centres, organisations, and committees in Scotland (linked below). This follows Disclosure Scotland’s publication of a sector-specific guide for sport on 11th June 2025.

UPDATED PVG GUIDANCE - JUNE 2025

Our latest guidance provides further clarity around the types of roles that now require PVG Scheme membership and aims to address common questions from affiliated organisations. It is particularly relevant for those working with children under 18 or protected adults, especially in structured or regular activities.

Is a PVG required?

Any positions involving coaching/teaching and/or instructing have always required PVG checks, however this guidance provides more information around some of the roles that now fall into scope including Club Official and Committee roles, and those individuals that support regular activities/events targeted specifically at children or protected adults.

The guidance also looks at the difference between incidental and planned contact with vulnerable groups and explores some scenarios of when this comes into play.

Addressing Common Concerns

We have had a number of clubs and organisations looking for support following the initial guidance released on 1st April 2025. This guidance explores the guidance/answers given around the most frequently asked questions including areas such as:

• Self-employed instructors 

• Visiting coaches from other parts of the UK 

• Events exceeding three days

Why This Matters

With the transition period coming to a close on until 30th June 2025, it is critical that organisations ensure that those who are currently in roles that are regulated (but do not have PVG checks) have applied for a PVG and are being processed by this date. 

This update is also part of the RYA and RYA Scotland’s ongoing commitment to ensure safe, inclusive, and legally compliant participation in boating activities. With youth and inclusion-focused programmes like Sailability growing, clarity around safeguarding responsibilities is critical for organisations and volunteers.

Guidance for Clubs and Organisations

Organisations are urged to continue to assess roles carefully, ensuring they meet the criteria for PVG checks. Decisions should be documented, and safeguarding policies must be maintained beyond the legal requirements of PVG checks. 

If you have any PVG queries, then please contact safeguarding@ryascotland.org.uk

RYA and RYA Scotland wish to remind organisations that while PVG checks play a crucial role in safeguarding, they should complement - not replace - robust recruitment and child/adult protection measures within organisations.