Compliance deadline looms for PVG scheme’s new safeguarding rules

This is a reminder to all bands that PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) checks are now required for additional roles within banding – including conductor and committee members – to comply with new legislation that came into effect on 1 April.

An update was circulated to all band secretaries in the spring and the deadline for full compliance is 1 July, following a three-month period of grace after the new rules came into effect.

It is stressed that these changes mean that not complying with PVG safeguarding will be an illegal act after 1 July and you or your band can be prosecuted if not meeting the desired standards.

A new policy document has been drawn up by the Scottish Brass Band Association which bands are encouraged to read and share with their child protection officers (CPOs). If your band does not have a CPO, please now appoint one and have them contact Caroline Farren at sbbacpo@gmail.com where they will be offered any assistance required to bring them band up to the legal standard.

If your band has not already done so, it is imperative that your CPO gets in touch with Caroline Farren as soon as possible to arrange for your relevant checks to be completed.