Optometry Scotland (OS) has shared updated sector-wide guidance on Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) vetting requirements for optical practice staff in Scotland, following recent legislative changes under the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020.
This guidance has been produced collaboratively across the sector, with input from ABDO, the Association of Optometrists (AOP), College of Optometrists, and FODO – the Association for Eyecare Providers, and is being issued by OS to support practices in navigating the updated requirements.
The document reflects the collective interpretation of the relevant PVG legislation and guidance by ABDO, the AOP, College of Optometrists, FODO – the Association for Eyecare Providers, and OS.
It has been shared with the Scottish government for information but should not be considered formal SG or Disclosure Scotland policy, stated OS – adding that “practices should continue to exercise their own judgement and consult Disclosure Scotland directly where needed. The draft guidance will remain subject to review should further feedback be received from Scottish Government or Disclosure Scotland”.
Max Halford, ABDO clinical and policy director, said: “The changes to the Scottish PVG scheme are a key part of ensuring the safeguarding of children and protected adults when they visit practices for eyecare in Scotland. Previously, dispensing opticians and contact lens opticians may not have been included in this scheme, therefore, the changes that have been announced by the Scottish government are substantive – and I would urge colleagues to check their understanding of the scheme and apply as soon as possible to join in case of any backlogs with application processing.”