Click on the headings below for more information.

• Q1. How long does it take for a PVG Scheme Application to be processed?

• A. This depends on a number of factors. SPT aims to process applications as quickly as possible, but has to rely on Disclosure Scotland, depending on what checks have to be carried out by Disclosure Scotland..

  Applications should normally take 14 days to be processed by Disclosure Scotland but there are cases where Disclosure Scotland may carry out further enquiries and this means that it can take longer for the Application to be processed.

  If the application form is not filled in correctly, for example, if a complete 5 year address history is not provided, the form will be returned by SPT for correction. Please check that the details on the form are correct before sending it to SPT. If any of the required details are missing, the form will be returned for them to be filled in.

  If there is any Vetting Information on the PVG Scheme Record, SPT is then obliged to consult the Councils it acts for and this can take another two to three weeks for the councils to make their decisions. In some cases it may take longer.

• Q2. How much time should I allow for clearance?

• A. Please make sure that you submit your applications in good time, bearing in mind that it can take some time for an application to be processed. Some times of the year are busier than others, for example, in the run up to Christmas Disclosure Scotland gets more applications for seasonal workers than at other times of the year and this may affect the time it takes for the issue of a PVG Scheme Record or Scheme Record Update.

• Q3. I have a clearance from a council. Can I drive on SPT Contracts?

• A. No. You cannot drive on SPT contracts until you have received a letter confirming your clearance.

• Q4. My drivers and attendants are all cleared through a council. Can I use them on SPT contracts?

• A. No. You cannot use anyone on any SPT contract until you have received written clearance from SPT. In this case you need to complete a VODA3 form for each person you wish to employ on an SPT contract and submit it to SPT with evidence of the council clearance for each person. You will then be issued with the appropriate clearance. There is no charge for this.

• Q5. I have just taken on a driver or attendant who already has a PVG Scheme Record and is cleared by SPT for his/her old employer. Can I use this driver or attendant?

• A. No. You must notify SPT using a VODA4 form requesting transfer of the clearance and wait until you receive written clearance. There is no charge for this. If the driver or attendant was cleared for a different council area, you will not be able to have that clearance transferred if the person has any Vetting Information on their Scheme Record and will have so submit a fresh PVG Scheme Record application.

• Q6. How much does a PVG Scheme Application cost?

• A. The current price is £59.00. This is set by Disclosure Scotland. See the Disclosure Scotland Website for full details of costs.

• Q7. Can my drivers or attendants work on a SPT contract while waiting for their clearance?

• A. No. You must not allow any driver or attendant to work on an SPT contract unless you have written clearance from SPT for each person.

• Q8. What happens if I use a driver or attendant without SPT clearance?

• A. This will result in a warning letter from SPT and may result in suspension or termination of the contract.

• Q9. When completing a PVG Scheme application, who fills in the details on the page headed “Countersignature”?

• A. This page is completed by SPT. You must not enter any information on this page otherwise the application will be returned to you and you will be required to complete a fresh application.

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