A Dumfries and Galloway councillor is advocating for a thorough review of leisure arrangements that should involve full disclosure checks for individuals associated with groups utilizing council facilities. The council is currently examining agreements with community clubs and third-sector organisations operating in locations such as DG1 in Dumfries and Ryan Centre in Stranraer. These arrangements, some of which have been in place for up to two decades, are being evaluated to establish a consistent framework for all community bodies using council leisure facilities.
To address this, an officer working group has been established to undertake the necessary work, with councillors being informed of this development at the recent education, skills, and community wellbeing committee meeting. During the session, North West Dumfries councillor Paula Stevenson highlighted the importance of ensuring that clubs have the appropriate disclosures in place when utilizing council facilities, emphasising her commitment to this issue going forward.
Harry Hay, the council’s head of thriving communities, affirmed the significance of these disclosures and requirements, stating that the assessment will focus on ensuring consistency in the expectations for users of the facilities and verifying their compliance. Disclosure Scotland, a Scottish Government agency, conducts these checks to prevent unsuitable individuals, such as convicted sex offenders, from working with vulnerable groups, including children.
In summary, Councillor Paula Stevenson’s call for full disclosure checks for groups using council facilities in Dumfries and Galloway is gaining momentum as the council reviews its leisure arrangements to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all individuals involved. This proactive approach underscores the council’s commitment to transparency and safeguarding measures within the community.