Marie Curie Hospice in Glasgow could have been closed to new patients after it was discovered several staff had no Disclosure Scotland check.

The hospice, in Balornock, was given a Very Good rating for the care it provides.

But after the Disclosure Scotland problem was found, the hospice has been given time to ensure clinical staff are checked under the new Protecting Vulnerable Groups scheme – providing the workers sign a declaration about criminal convictions in the meantime.

The inspections by Healthcare Improvement Scotland found that around 30 staff were required to have the new PVG check.

Ian Smith, acting chief inspector, said: "Overall we found that people who use the service are complimentary about the care. However we have identified areas for improvement."

Aspects of care described as Very Good included patient and family participation.

A Marie Curie Cancer Care spokeswoman said: "The staff referred to began in the hospice prior to the introduction of Criminal Rec-ords Bureau checks.

"At the time of the introduction of CRB there was no requirement to retrospectively check staff already employed."

stewart.paterson@ heraldandtimes.co.uk