*** NEWBIE ALERT *** 
The HDMI connection overides the TV SCART and Component outputs.
The VCR/DVD SCART is not affected by the TV connection method so you do not need to disconnect the HDMI to use it.
Just a couple of suggestions
- Is the SCART lead connecting the V+ to your VCR bi-directional?
If not, have you tried swapping it round.
- Is the VCR set to the correct input (AV1, AV2)?
TW
Edit: 1st post and already beaten to it