A year of safeguarding: Disclosure Scotland processed over 627,000 checks in 2025

2 February 2026 - Disclosure Scotland has released new figures showing the organisation processed more than 627,955 disclosure checks in 2025, reinforcing its central role in supporting safer recruitment across Scotland. 

Chief Executive Gerard Hart said: 

"Every disclosure we process helps protect someone vulnerable. A child, an  adult, a family. In 2025, Disclosure Scotland processed over 627,955  disclosures, enabling safer recruitment across Scotland. I want to thank our  stakeholders and customers, and everyone at Disclosure Scotland for making  safeguarding faster and simpler." 

Growth in PVG membership 

 Since January 2025, over 115,000 people have joined the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme. These new members include teachers, care staff, support workers and others stepping into regulated roles with children or protected adults. 

In total, Disclosure Scotland: 

• Processed 374,477 PVG applications 
• Uploaded 357,921 records for ongoing monitoring, ensuring continuous protection for vulnerable groups 

Supporting recruitment beyond regulated roles 

Beyond PVG checks, the organisation processed almost 229,000 Level 1 disclosures last year. These checks supported people starting new jobs and volunteering roles and support employers in making informed, safe recruitment decisions. 

Strengthening safeguarding through barring decisions 

In 2025, Disclosure Scotland barred 937 individuals from undertaking regulated roles with children and protected adults - an essential safeguard that prevents unsuitable individuals from accessing vulnerable groups. 

Looking ahead to 2026 

Throughout 2026 Disclosure Scotland will continue to make disclosure checks faster and more innovative, while maintaining transparency and trust.