Artists whose practice involves working with vulnerable groups should be aware
that the Scottish Government has recently reported on the progress of the PVG
Scheme. You can download the latest update from the government's website here:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/People/Young-People/children-families/pvglegis\
lation/pvgupdate-march2009

We note that there is still no official word on the fees that those who must
register with the scheme will have to apply, but when the secondary legislation
enters its consultation phase the Scottish Artists Union will once again call
for the exemption for those in the voluntary sector be extended to low-paid
freelance workers.

Our attention has been drawn to the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge
scheme. Official website here:
http://www.lotcqualitybadge.org.uk/home

The Council for Learning Outside the Classroom are currently seeking opinions on
whether the scheme should be extended to freelancers. The badge is not
obligatory like the PVG Scheme, but if it became so could mean yet another
financial burden on low-paid artists attempting to work in the community. We
would oppose such a proposition and call upon concerned parties to fill out the
Council's online survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=5aMNO3OAY_2bZxYKHJ2_2b5xbg_3d_3d