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Mayflower Disclosure Services: News and Updates 

2024 News / Updates:

March 2024: AccessNI Fee Reduction

We are pleased to announce that AccessNI are reducing their fees from 1st April 2024.

Basic and Standard AccessNI checks will be £2 less, and Enhanced AccessNI checks will be £1 less.

This price reduction will apply to all AccessNI applications you submit to Mayflower for processing from 1st April 2024 onwards.

View our AccessNI prices here.

If you have any questions, please contact us.

Latest Processing Times: January & February 2024

The latest processing times for the various checks we offer are below

The Police Performance reports provided by DBS offer helpful information regarding the performance of each Police Force that processes DBS applications. The reports also provide information on how the Police Forces work to improve processing times.

January's Police Performance report is here.

February's Police Performance report is here.

Average Processing Days

Type of check

January 2024

February 2024

2024 Average

Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland:

1

1

1

Standard DBS checks:

1.5

1.5

1.5

Enhanced DBS checks:

8

7

7.5

PVG checks (new members and updates)

6

6

6

Standard AccessNI checks:

1

1

1

Enhanced AccessNi checks:

2

2

2

Employee Credit checks:

1

1

1

External ID checks:

1

1

1

Digital ID checks

2 hours

2 hours

2 hours

2023 News / Updates:

Latest Processing Times: August, September, October, November & December 2023

The latest processing times for the various checks we offer are below:

Note: Delays were experienced during August and December.  This is mainly due to the Bank Holidays, which caused a reduction in working days within the DBS and the DBS Police departments.

The DBS's Police Performance report for December 2023 is also available by clicking here

Average Processing Days

Type of check

Aug 2023

Sept 2023

Oct 2023

Nov 2023

Dec 2023

2023 Average (Aug-Dec)

Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Standard DBS checks:

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

Enhanced DBS checks:

10 days

7 days

7 days

8 days

10 days

8.4 days

PVG checks (new members and updates)

7 days

5 days

5.5 days

5.5 days

5.5 days

5.7  days

Standard AccessNI checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Enhanced AccessNi checks:

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

Employee Credit checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

External ID checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Changes to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 implemented by DBS.

Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (ROA), eligible convictions or cautions become ‘spent’ after a specified period of time, known as the ‘rehabilitation period’.

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has implemented operational changes based on new legislation that came into force on 28 October 2023.

The DBS have updated their rehabilitation periods guidance to reflect these changes.

DBS System Upgrade 03/08/2023

We will upgrade our DBS system at 8 am on Thursday, 03/08/2023.


Please read on to find out what we've been up to and what you can expect to come in our next release:

 

1. You will now be able to ask a candidate to do multiple checks in just one invite e.g: DBS with/without Digital ID & Right to Work.

https://stratus.campaign-image.eu/images/126021000001039006_zc_v1_1690552285951_image004.png

2. New product icons will display "at a glance" information so you can easily see the checks being carried out on a candidate and view their status.

https://stratus.campaign-image.eu/images/126021000001039006_zc_v1_1690551891866_image001.png

3. The Application Overview page has been re-designed so you can view all the different checks and their results for a candidate on one page.

https://stratus.campaign-image.eu/images/126021000001039006_zc_v1_1690552009107_image005.png


If you have any questions, please contact us.

Latest Processing Times: May, June & July 2023

The latest processing times for the various checks we offer are below:

Average Processing Days

Type of check

May 2023

June 2023

July 2023

2023 Average

Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Standard DBS checks:

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

Enhanced DBS checks:

8 days

8 days

8 days

8 days

PVG checks (new members and updates)

7 days

5 days

5.5 days

5.5 days

Standard AccessNI checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Enhanced AccessNi checks:

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

Employee Credit checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

External ID checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Covid Fast-track DBS - End Date 10th May 2023

The DBS has announced that the Covid Fast-Track service will end on 10th May 2023

The deadline for submitting fast-track Covid DBS applications to Mayflower is 5 pm on 10/05/2023.

Any Covid DBS applications submitted to Mayflower after this time will not qualify for the Covid fast-track service or the reduced fee.

Please find the DBS announcement below, and ensure all personnel involved in using the Covid Fast-Track Service are aware of this change.

Dear Registered Body

We have received confirmation that the legislation required to bring the Covid Fast-Track Service to a close has been successfully laid in parliament. 

This legislation will come into force on the 11th May 2023, therefore the final day for receipt of valid Covid Fast-Track applications will be Wednesday 10th May.


From 11th May you must:

    Only identify applications as being related to voluntary roles in accordance with pre-existing guidance which can be found here 

    Only include “Covid” or “Coronavirus” in the Position Applied For field where this terminology forms part of the official job title.

Any applications received by DBS on or after 11th May will be subject to increased scrutiny.  Applications deemed to have been inaccurately submitted as free-of-charge checks will be subject to retrospective charging and possible compliance measures.

Where employers require urgent adult barred list information then they should revert to using the pre-existing DBS Adult First service.

Thank you, 

Disclosure and Barring Service

https://www.gov.uk/dbs  

Follow DBS on social media:

Twitter and Facebook: @DBSgovuk

LinkedIn: Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

Latest Processing Times: March & April 2023

Slight delays were experienced in April for Enhanced checks and PVG checks, due to the Easter Bank Holidays.

The latest processing times for the various checks we offer are below:

Average Processing Days

Type of check

Mar 2023

Apr 2023

2023 Average

Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland:

1 day

1 day

1 day

Standard DBS checks:

2 days

2 days

2 days

Enhanced DBS checks:

8 days

10 days

8 days

PVG checks (new members and updates)

5 days

7 days

5.5 days

Standard AccessNI checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

Enhanced AccessNi checks:

2 days

2 days

2.5 days

Employee Credit checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

External ID checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

Latest Processing Times: December 2022, January & February 2023

The latest Processing time for the various checks we offer are below:

Average Processing Days

Type of check

Dec 2022

Jan 2023

Feb 2023

3 month average

Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Standard DBS checks:

3 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

Enhanced DBS checks:

10 days

8 days

7 days

8 days

PVG checks (new members and updates)

5 days

5 days

5 days

5 days

Standard AccessNI checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Enhanced AccessNi checks:

2 days

2 days

4 days

2.6 days

Employee Credit checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

External ID checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

February 2023:

We are pleased to confirm that Digital Right to Work (RTW) checks will go live on our system on Wednesday, 22/02/2023.

This upgrade gives you the ability:

  • To request stand-alone digital RTW checks for all your candidates, irrespective of whether you need a DBS check for them or not.
  • To request a combined DBS & RTW Digital ID check simultaneously. A combined DBS & RTW Digital ID check will save you work and means that your candidate will only need to carry out 1 x ID check instead of 2 x separate ones.
  • Note: A combined RTW & DBS Digital ID check attracts a 38% saving compared to obtaining the 2 x Digital ID checks separately.

Click here to see our Digital ID Price List.

  • Click here to see our updated Digital ID instructions.
  • Click here for Applicant Demo.
  • Click here to see the ID documents an applicant needs for a Digital ID check.
  • If you don't have access to our online DBS System, but you would like to use our RTW Digital ID checking service, please Contact Us.


Updates to the "Create Invite" section:

We have expanded the "Create Invite" feature so that you can use it to send a digital RTW invite to a non-DBS candidate.


Or you can use it to send a Digital ID DBS invite to a candidate before they create a DBS application if you wish to and upload it to their DBS application at a later date.


If you have any questions, please Contact Us, or Click here for detailed information about our Digital ID checks.


January 2023:

In December last year, we successfully implemented DBS Digital ID checking in partnership with TrustID, allowing you to carry out Digital ID checks for DBS applicants instead of manually checking their ID documents.

We have developed the Digital ID check process to utilise "RFID Chip opening". RFID Chip opening reads the Microchip contained within a person's Biometric Passport and Biometric Residence permit.

Applicants will now be required to use the TrustID App to complete their Digital ID check. The TrustID App enables TrustID to use RFID Chip opening. The TrustID App is easy to use; full instructions will be provided to applicants in their Digital ID invite email. Click here for a Demo.

Chip reading brings the following benefits to our Digital ID checking service:

1. Higher percentage of Pass rates, i.e., fewer Digital ID check Fails.

2. Less ID documents required:

  • UK Nationals need: 1 x Biometric Passport
  • Non-UK Nationals need: 1 x Biometric Passport plus an e-visa share code or 1 x Biometric Visa No other ID docs are needed.

3. No more Fails solely due to failed address verificatione.g., If the Identity check is a Pass, but the address verification fails, the system will now accept the Digital ID check as a Pass and prompt you to verify the applicant's address yourself.

This change means you can carry out a Digital ID check on somebody who is likely to fail their address verification and still get a Digital ID check Pass for them. Particularly useful for Students or someone who has only lived at their address for a short time.

Note: A Biometric Passport can be identified by the gold camera logo at the bottom of the front cover:

A non-UK national can get their e-Visa Share Code here.


Pending Digital ID checks:

If you have any Digital ID checks pending and would like your applicant to use the new RFID Chip Opening process instead, you can re-set their online ID section and send them a new Digital ID invitation. To do this, enter the ID section by clicking on the "Check ID" hyperlink, click the "RE-SET ID" button, and initiate a Digital ID check again.

Screenshots are here.


COMING SOON! Digital Right-To-Work Checks:

We are also pleased to announce that on 22nd February 2023, we will be extending our existing digital ID integration with TrustID to include digital Right to Work checks. We will send further details on our digital RTW offering next week.

2022 News / Updates:

November 2022

1. Digital ID checks for DBS - live on 07/12/2022

2.  Latest Processing Times: September, October & November2022

The latest Processing time for the various checks we offer are below:

Average Processing Days

Type of check

Sept 2022

Oct 2022

Nov 2022

3 month average

Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Standard DBS checks:

3 days

2 days

2 days

2.3 days

Enhanced DBS checks:

10 days

9 days

8 days

9 days

PVG checks (new members and updates)

5 days

5 days

5 days

5 days

Standard AccessNI checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Enhanced AccessNi checks:

2 days

2 days

4 days

2.6 days

Employee Credit checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

External ID checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

August 2022

1.  Digital ID checking for DBS applications - Coming Soon

A few Digital ID providers (IDSPs) have recently been certified to carry out Digital ID checks for DBS applications, however many are still going through certification. 

This is exciting and we can confirm that we will be incorporating Digital ID checking into our online DBS application system soon.   

We are currently conducting a thorough supplier review with many Digital ID providers to find the best fit and to ensure their services can be integrated with our system, are easy to use, are at an acceptable price point for our customers, and meet the needs of all parties involved.

We want to get it right first time, rather than rush something out which is a poor fit, so we aren't quite ready to introduce it yet.

Digital ID checks will be available as an optional way for you to check the ID of your applicants. 

The current ID checking methods remain in place and will continue to be an option for you.

We will provide updates with further developments as soon as we can.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask via our Contact Us form.

2.  Latest Processing Times:

The latest Processing time for the various checks we offer is below. Since April 2022, we have seen a slightly delayed service from the DBS, attributed to the Bank Holidays we had in April, May & June. Unfortunately, in our experience, Public Holidays inevitably create a backlog at the DBS which takes them some time to overcome.

Average Processing Days

Type of check

May 2022

June 2022

July 2022

3 month average

Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland:

1 day

2 days

1 day

1.3 days

Standard DBS checks:

3 days

2 days

2 days

2.3 days

Enhanced DBS checks:

12 days

10 days

10 days

10.6 days

PVG checks (new members and updates)

5 days

5 days

5 days

5 days

Basic AccessNI checks: 

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Standard AccessNI checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

Enhanced AccessNi checks:

2 days

2 days

2 days

2 days

Employee Credit checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

External ID checks:

1 day

1 day

1 day

1 day

3.  DBS Application System Upgrade Thursday 18th August 2022 at 8am

Please find details below of the latest upgrade to our DBS System.


Directory lookup for populating address history:

We have introduced an address finder tool to the applications.

This will allow candidates to start typing their address/post code into the address finder and their address will automatically be populated based on their selection. 

It works for both UK and non-UK addresses and should dramatically reduce the number of applications created with incorrect postcodes or spelling errors in the address history.

Passport & Driving Licence questions added to Standard/Enhanced DBS application form:

To remain compliant with the DBS, we are adding two additional questions to the Standard/Enhanced DBS application form. 

These questions will ask the candidate whether they hold a valid Passport and a valid UK Driving Licence, and if so, capture the details of those documents and validate where relevant.  

Please amend the instructions you give to candidates so they have their Passport and Driving Licence to hand when they create their DBS applications.

April 2022

  • Our Processing Times for April 2022 were: (note these are averages):
    • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1 day
    • Standard DBS checks: 1 day
    • Enhanced DBS checks: 10 days *usually 8 days.  Increase is due to the Easter Bank Holidays
    • PVG checks (new members and updates): 5 days
    • Basic AccessNI checks:  1 day
    • Standard AccessNI checks: 1 day
    • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 2 days
    • Employee Credit checks: 1 day
    • External ID checks: 1 day

March 2022

New DBS Prices:

We are pleased to advise that from 6 April 2022, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) will be reducing the fees for DBS checks. 

This reduction will be reflected in our prices as follows:

Type of DBS check

Current Price

New Price from

6 April 2022

Saving

Basic DBS check

£37.39 

£32.39

£5

Standard DBS check

£37.39

£32.39

£5

Enhanced DBS check

£54.39

£52.39

£2         

All other prices for the services we provide including Volunteer DBS checks and DBS Adult First checks, and Basic Disclosure Scotland checks will remain the same

A full breakdown of our prices are available here.

The weblink to the DBS announcement is here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/fee-reduction-for-dbs-checks

Our Processing Times for February 2022 were: (note these are averages):

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1 day
  • Standard DBS checks: 2 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 8 days
  • PVG checks (new members and updates): 4 days
  • Basic AccessNI checks:  1 day
  • Standard AccessNI checks: 3 days
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 3 days
  • Employee Credit checks: 1 day
  • External ID checks: 1 day

February 2022

Digital ID Checking (IDVT) – An Update                        16th February 2022

The UK Government recently announced that Digital ID Validation Technology (IDVT) can be used for Right to Work and DBS checks from 6th April 2022.

These Digital ID checks can only be carried out by government-approved “ID Service Providers” (IDSP’s) who are certified against the Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework (DIATF).

At the moment no certified ID Service Providers exist, however, the government will publish a list of ID Service Providers as soon as organisations become certified.

Once ID Service Providers become certified they will be able to provide individuals with a “Digital Identity”.

This will mean that individuals will be able to use their “Digital ID” for Right to Work and DBS checks, eliminating the need to supply hard-copy ID documents multiple times over.  Currently it looks like they will only be available to British and Irish passport holders.  Read on for more information about this.

 

What is a Digital Identity?

Digital ID provides a digital solution to proving an individual’s identity; eliminating the need to supply hard-copies of ID documents multiple times over, for what are often relatively simple transactions.

Individuals will be able to hold a digital version of their identity which has been proven by a certified Identity Service Provider (IDSP).

“A digital identity is a digital representation of a person acting as an individual or as a representative of an organisation. It enables them to prove who they are during interactions and transactions. They can use it online or in person. Services and organisations that let users use secure digital identities can better trust that those users are who they say they are.” (gov.uk)

The aim of Digital ID is to create a process that is as trusted as using passports or bank statements.

 

How will Digital Identity be governed?

ID Service Providers who operate within the Digital Identity Scheme must be certified against the Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework (DIATF).

The Framework provides a set of rules which will allow individuals to use their Digital ID across different organisations. The Framework will be regulated and run by an official governing body; however, the UK government has not announced who this will be yet.

 

Digital Identity:  Right to Work and DBS Checks

In the latest guidance released on 17th January 2022, the government confirmed that Digital ID could be used for Right to Work checks and DBS checks.

For Right to Work checks, Digital ID will only be available to verify the identity of valid British and Irish Passports (or Irish Passport cards) and that the final stage of the process will involve the employer verifying that the image provided on the Digital ID is a true likeness of the individual via an in-person meeting or a video call, as the liability still ultimately sits with the employer. 

British or Irish candidates who are unable to produce a valid passport or passport card, must still have the right to work element verified using a manual hard-document check (i.e. expired passport, birth certificate etc.).

Non-UK/Non-Irish Nationals must have their right to work checked via the traditional route – for the majority, this will be via the online right to work check service.

As the DBS ID checking rules follow the Right to Work rules it is likely that the same rules will apply for the use of Digital ID for DBS checks.

We will provide further information when it becomes available.

 

What is Mayflower Disclosure Services doing in preparation for Digital Identity?

Mayflower is engaging with providers who are looking to become certified third-party Digital ID Service Providers; with the aim to integrate this into our online DBS System from 6th April 2022.

Until the government releases more detail and until certificate ID Service Providers become certified, we are not in a position to provide more information.

We will continue to closely monitor developments regarding Digital Identity and report as further details are released.

2.  Our January 2022 Processing Times were (note these are averages):

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1 day
  • Standard DBS checks: 2 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 8 days
  • PVG checks (new members and updates): 5 days
  • Basic AccessNI checks:  1 day
  • Standard AccessNI checks: 3 days
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 3 days
  • Employee Credit xhecks: 1 day
  • External ID checks: 1 day

2021 News / Updates:

December 2021

1. November2021 Processing Times were: (note these are averages):

*Note: Further to the DBS announcement about prospective delays our processing times for DBS checks has increased by 2 days. We are working closely with the DBS to bring this back down.

Please take a look at out Tips to ensure your DBS checks are processed as quickly as possible.

Our average processing times to complete checks during November 2021 were:

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 2 days
  • Standard DBS checks: 3 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 10 days
  • PVG checks (new members and updates): 7 days
  • Basic AccessNI checks:  1 day
  • Standard AccessNI checks: 2 days
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 1 day

November 2021

1. October 2021 Processing Times were: (note these are averages):

*Note: Further to the DBS announcement about prospective delays our processing times for DBS checks has increased by 2 days. We are working closely with the DBS to bring this back down.

Please take a look at out Tips to ensure your DBS checks are processed as quickly as possible.

    • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 3 days
    • Standard DBS checks: 3 days
    • Enhanced DBS checks: 10 days
    • PVG checks (new members and updates): 7 days
    • Basic AccessNI checks:  2 days
    • Standard AccessNI checks: 1 day
    • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 1 day


2. DBS Home-Based Guidance has been updated:

Working from Home / Home-Based DBS checks:

When should you answer "Yes" to the question: ‘does this position involve working with children or adults at the applicant’s home address?’

Check out the updated DBS Guidance here

October 2021

1.  DBS Announce Processing Delays: View the DBS Press Release Here

2.  Tips to ensure your DBS checks are processed as quickly as possible:

DBS has announced processing delays of approximately 5 days due to high demand. See the DBS Press Release above.

Here are some tips to let you speed your way through DBS checks.

  • Quickly Respond to Queries: Queries cause delays. Minimise delays by responding to queries as soon as you can
  • Address History Errors:  The most common reason for delayed or rejected DBS checks is errors with address history
    • Undisclosed or Inaccurate Addresses.Street Numbers, House Numbers and Names and Flat Numbers are ESSENTIAL.
    • Provide the applicant’s address history for the entirety of the last five years.
    • Include accurate ‘from’ and ‘to’ dates, in format mm/yyyy.
  • Typos:  High up on the list of common issues are typos. Make sure the Surname is spelt correctly. Beware of typos or similar sounding names.
    • When it comes to DBS, Clark is not Clarke!
    • Check the surname entered is exactly as printed on the applicant’s identity documents.
  • Don’t Forget the PastAny previous names – whether it’s a different forename, middle name or surname – must be included:
    • Check that the applicant has given all names by which they’ve been known. They must also supply documentary proof to support their name changes.
  • Missing Middle Name?:  The applicant’s full name must be declared, including middle name(s).
    • All names on a DBS check are run against the Police National Computer and any discrepancies are flagged. When relevant, the police release this information onto the certificate.

3. September 2021 Processing Times were: (note these are averages):

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1 day
  • Standard DBS checks: 2 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 8 days
  • PVG checks (new members and updates): 2 days
  • Basic AccessNI checks:  1 day
  • Standard AccessNI checks: 1 day
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 1 day

September 2021

DBS System Upgrade - Wednesday 29th September 2021

We are pleased to announce that the upgrade to our DBS System has been rescheduled to take place on WEDNESDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER 2021 at 8AM. 

We expect the upgrade to take no longer than 2 hours, during this time the system will be unavailable to all Users.   

This upgrade includes the following changes and feature enhancements:

1.  DBS ID List & Right To Work (RTW) Changes:

Following an announcement from the DBS that the ID rules will be changing to accommodate Brexit and changes in RTW requirements for candidates outside of the UK, we will be updating our system to reflect the new guidance. This will include changes to the ID screens with updated document names in the drop-down lists, updated guidance on-screen and changes in logic to place candidates into UK and non-UK categories.

This will affect ID checking for Basic DBS checks, Standard DBS checks and Enhanced DBS checks.

Once this update has been implemented, you will be required to verify applicants' ID in line with the New DBS ID checking guidelines. 

The Key Points of the new DBS ID checking guidelines are: 

  • The ID List for UK Nationals (British citizens) REMAINS THE SAME
  • References to "EEA" and "Non-EEA" have been removed and replaced with "Non-UK National".  The ID List for Non-UK Nationals (i.e.: current nationality is not British) has changed
  • There is only one ID checking ROUTE FOR NON-UK NATIONALS. Once the update has been implemented, a DBS check cannot be obtained if a non-UK applicant cannot provide ID in line with the stipulated route.
  • Online Home Office RTW checks (Positive Verification Notices) cannot be used for DBS ID verification purposes - you must see the ID documents stipulated on the new ID Lists.
  • Applicants with Dual Citizenship:  Should enter the Current Nationality on their DBS application form as British, so their ID can be checked through the UK National route

Further background information regarding these changes is available here: Changes to DBS Acceptable ID documents

Should you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us.

2. Candidate Invite Email - NEW FEATURE - An ability to invite candidates to start the application process from within your Application Manager area.

We have added an invitation feature inside of the system that can be used by Application Managers to invite candidates to start the process.

You will be able to select the type of criminality check you wish the candidate to apply for, who you want to send the invite to and what you want it to say.

You also have the option to send an invite to multiple candidates at the same time or in bulk via a spreadsheet upload if required. 

Candidates will be able to click on the link provided in the invite email to open the online DBS application form.  They won't be required to enter any Login details.

These invite emails can be tracked, manually chased and automatically chased by the system until the candidate completes their form.  The default chase pattern will be 3 chases every 3 days, but this can be changed at your individual organisation level if required.

This feature is in addition to the existing "Step 1" Applicant Login procedure.  You can choose which process to use to suit you.

Instructions for the Candidate Invite Email feature are available in the updated Application Manager User Guides which you can download from our Customer Resources webpage

Unfortunately, the planned upgrade and implementation of the New ID Lists onto the online DBS System, as previously communicated to you on 20th August, has been postponed.

This is due to an error we have identified following the deployment of the upgrade onto our internal system, during the Testing Phase.

 We are working on the resolution of this challenge before deploying the upgrade onto our live online DBS System, to ensure your applicant and user experience is not impacted. 

Once we have resolved this challenge and have a revised deployment date of the upgrade, we will communicate this with you.

Please continue to use the existing Lists of Acceptable ID until further notice.  These can be viewed/downloaded here: https://dbsdirect.co.uk/dbs-id-documents.php 

 We can only apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. Should you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

View / Download the DBS ID Lists here

 

July 2021

1. Changes to DBS Acceptable ID documents – effective 1st July 2021 (with transition period)

The DBS recently announced that the DBS Lists of Acceptable ID will be amended in line with the new right to work rules that come into effect today, 1st July 2021.  

Due to the short notice of this change, DBS agreed to a grace period whereby the old versions of Acceptable ID can continue to be accepted.  This allows us time to make the technical changes to our online system.

We ar epleased to announce that these changes will be implemented on our System on Friday 10th September at 8am. 

Please continue to check ID for DBS applications in line with the Pre-July 2021 DBS ID Lists until 10th September 2021 ***POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE***.

View / Download the new DBS ID Lists here

Click here to read the DBS announcement regarding the ID Changes.


The Key Changes to the DBS Lists of Acceptable ID are: 

  • References to "EEA" and "Non-EEA" have been removed and replaced with "Non-UK National".
  • The DBS ID List for UK Nationals (British citizens) REMAINS THE SAME
  • The DBS ID List for Non-UK Nationals (i.e.: current nationality is not British) will CHANGE, see below:

BASIC DBS applications: ID requirements for Non-UK Nationals:

ROUTE 1A must be followed: 2 x ID documents must be seen:

  • 1 x GROUP 1A “Primary identity documents for non-UK nationals needing a DBS check for paid work in the UK” document, plus
  • 1 x further document from GROUP 1, GROUP 2A or GROUP 2b

Note:  There is NO OTHER I.D. ROUTE FOR NON-UK NATIONALS.  Once the new ID Rules have been implemented to our online DBS System, a Basic DBS application cannot be obtained if an applicant cannot provide this combination of ID.

 

STANDARD OR ENHANCED DBS applications: ID requirements for Non-UK Nationals: 

  • 3 x ID documents must be seen
  • 1 x Primary Document, plus
  • 2 x Supporting Documents *note: if a Passport or Biometric Residence permit is used as a Primary Document it cannot be used again as a Supporting Document

Note:  There is NO OTHER I.D. ROUTE FOR NON-UK NATIONALS.  Once the new ID Rules have been implemented to our online DBS System, a Standard or Enhanced DBS application cannot be obtained if an applicant cannot provide this ID.

Applicants with Dual Citizenship:  

Should enter the Current Nationality on their DBS application form as British, so their ID can be checked through the UK National route.

2. Reminder:  Importance of providing Accurate Name and Address Information on DBS applications

Recently we have noticed that a number of DBS applications are being submitted which contain errors or incomplete information.   

Common errors are:

  • Middle Name Missing
  • Previous Names Missing
  • Spelling mistakes on Names or Addresses
  • Incomplete 5 Year Address History
  • Flat Numbers or Street Numbers Missing from addresses
  • Incorrect Postcodes

Full and accurate information must be provided on DBS application forms.  The DBS base their checks on the information provided.  If inaccurate information is entered, an inaccurate DBS certificate will be issued.

It is your responsibility to ensure that full and accurate information has been provided on a DBS application form and that an applicant’s ID is checked in line with the DBS ID Checking Guidelines

The submission of incorrect information could lead to an application being withdrawn by the DBS under the DBS Withdrawal Policy with NO REFUND.

Please emphasise the importance to applicants that they provide full and accurate information.  

You can check all of the details that an applicant has entered via your Application Manager Login.  Click on the Application tab of the Form:

If there are any errors or discrepancies, you must not submit the application for processing.  Instead, you need to withdraw the application and ask the applicant to create a new one.

Whilst we do everything we can to ensure applications contain accurate information before submission to the DBS, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions made on a DBS application form.

3. June 2021 Processing Times were: (note these are averages):

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1 day
  • Standard DBS checks: 2 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 7 days
  • PVG checks (new members and updates): 3 days
  • Basic AccessNI checks:  2 days
  • Standard AccessNI checks: 1 day
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 1 day

May 2021 Processing Times were: (note these are averages):

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1 day
  • Standard DBS checks: 2 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 7 days
    • PVG checks (new members and updates): 10 days
    • Basic AccessNI checks:  1 day
  • Standard AccessNI checks: 1 day
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 1 day

May 2021

1.System Upgrade to our Online DBS Application System

We are pleased to advise that our DBS System has been successfully Upgraded to give it a modern and fresh look.

short explainer video highlighting the new features is available here.

Key changes include:

  • New "tool-tip" info icons to help applicants complete the online application form more easily.
  • Clear & Modern Button Design.
  • New Mobile & Tablet Friendly Design so you and your candidates can manage applications on any device.

If you have any questions about this please contact us.

2.  April 2021 Processing times:

Our average processing times to complete checks during April 2021 were:

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1 day
  • Standard DBS checks: 1.8 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 6 days
  • PVG checks (new members and updates): 5 days
  • Basic AccessNI checks: 1 day
  • Standard AccessNI checks: 1 day
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 1 day

April 2021:

Our Application Processing Times for March:

Our average processing times to complete checks during March 2021 were:

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1 day
  • Standard DBS checks: 1.5 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 5.6 days
  • PVG checks: 7 days
  • Basic AccessNI checks: 2 days
  • Standard AccessNI checks: 1 day
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 1 day

Reduced Price Fast-Track COVID-19 DBS Checks Continue To Be Available:

Benefits include:

  • They are charged at the reduced Volunteer rate, click here for Prices
  • The Barred List checks are Fast-Tracked so you can start staff in their roles quickly
  • They can be used for COVID Vaccinators and related roles which require Enhanced DBS checks.  NHS Guidance on this is available here
  • Other Eligible Roles are here

To get the benefits of a Fast-Track COVID-19 DBS check you need to pre-fix the “Position Applied For” with the word “COVID”.  More detailed instructions are here.


March 2021:

1.Successful Upgrade to our Online DBS Application System

We are pleased to advise that our DBS System has been successfully Upgraded to give it a modern and fresh look.

short explainer video highlighting the new features is available here.

Key changes include:

  • New "tool-tip" info icons to help applicants complete the online application form more easily.
  • Clear & Modern Button Design.
  • New Mobile & Tablet Friendly Design so you and your candidates can manage applications on any device.

2. Application Processing Times for February:

Our average processing times to complete checks during February 2021 were:

 

  • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 1.5 days
  • Standard DBS checks: 1.5 days
  • Enhanced DBS checks: 5.6 days
  • PVG checks: 11 days
  • Basic AccessNI checks: 1 day
  • Enhanced AccessNi checks: 1 day

Why are some DBS applications taking longer than usual at the Printing Stage?

If a DBS application is taking a long time at Stage 5 (Printing), this indicates that an additional check is being carried out by the DBS to identify whether any of the information being considered for release can be removed under the new DBS filtering rules that were implemented on 28th November 2020.

This process can take some time to complete as there is a requirement for the DBS to liaise with the police to establish whether a piece of information can be removed or not.  

The DBS certificate will be issued in due course.

Why is DBS tracking showing that an application has been Withdrawn?

In some instances, the DBS are unable to complete an online DBS check for an applicant, and DBS tracking will show that the application has been withdrawn.  Don't worry, it is unlikely that it has been withdrawn.

This is due to the new Filtering Rules that came into effect on 28 November 2020.

Instead, the DBS will issue a “Manual DBS Certificate”, and send the Manual Paper DBS certificate to the applicant’s home address. 

Unfortunately, this means that you will not receive a DBS result through the online system.  The application will stay in the "Processing" section on your DBS account and the DBS tracking website will show that the application has been withdrawn.

Please be assured that the DBS check has been completed and the application has only be withdrawn from the online process.  Once we are notified by the DBS, we will send you the “Result” email independently of the online DBS System.
 

2020 News:

December 2020:

We have the following updates for you:

  1. Fast-Track COVID-19 DBS Checks Continue To Be Available
  2. DBS Checks for the COVID-19 Vaccination Workforce
  3. Easier ID Checks, Without Face-To-Face Contact, Remain In Place
  4. Changes to Standard & Enhanced DBS Filtering Legislation

Ø Fast-Track COVID-19 DBS Checks Continue To Be Available

Benefits include:

  • They are charged at the reduced Volunteer rate, click here for Prices
  • The Barred List checks are Fast-Tracked so you can start staff in their roles quickly
  • They can be used for COVID Vaccinators and related roles which require Enhanced DBS checks.  NHS Guidance on this is available here
  • Other Eligible Roles are here

To get the benefits of a Fast-Track COVID-19 DBS check you need to pre-fix the “Position Applied For” with the word “COVID”.  More detailed instructions are here.

The DBS is expecting to keep these in place throughout Winter.  We’ll advise should we get further notice of any change to this.

Ø DBS Checks for the COVID-19 Vaccination Workforce

It’s good news that a COVID-19 vaccine will soon be available. 

The NHS has issued the following guidance for COVID-19 Vaccination Employers: https://www.nhsemployers.org/covid19/assurance/preemployment-checks/criminal-record-checks#4

 

Ø Easier ID Checks, Without Face-To-Face Contact, Remain In Place

  • Scanned images or video link may be used to view original versions of the identity documents in advance of the DBS check being submitted (originals must be presented on the first day of employment).
  • In recognition that there are delays in issuing UK Passports, Expired UK Passports that are within 6 months of their expiry date can be accepted as if they were current.  Note: this does not apply to non-UK Passports

Ø Changes to Standard & Enhanced DBS Filtering Legislation

  • The Supreme Court recently judged that some elements of the filtering rules were  disproportionate, i.e.: what criminal record information can be disclosed on a DBS certificate
  • This means DBS will no longer disclose Youth Reprimands, Youth Warnings, or Youth Cautions on certificates.  A Youth is someone under 18.
  • DBS will also no longer disclose all convictions where somebody has more than one conviction. Instead, each individual conviction will be assessed against the other rules.  
  • These changes do NOT affect Basic DBS applications.
  • This change came into effect as of 28th November 2020     

The Conviction History question on our Standard/Enhanced DBS application form has been changed as follows:

“Do you have any convictions or cautions (excluding youth cautions, reprimands or warnings) that are not ‘protected’ as defined by the Ministry of Justice?”

More information is available on the GOV.UK website, here and here.

November 2020:

Key changes include:

  1. New "tool-tip" info icons to help applicants complete the online application form more easily.
  2. Clear & Modern Button Design.
  3. New Mobile & Tablet Friendly Design so you and your candidates can manage applications on any device.
  • Fast-Track Covid DBS checks continue to be available at a reduced rate for Healthcare and Care Workers being appointed in relation to Covid-19.  More info here.

  • Covid-19 Testers are eligible for Standard level DBS checks only.  According to The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (Regulated Activities) (Coronavirus) Order 2020, removing saliva or mucus for the purpose of testing for coronavirus is not to be treated as a regulated activity and so is not eligible for an Enhanced level DBS check.  Note:  if a tester is removing blood by needle insertion an Enhanced DBS check is required.  Information on the level of DBS checks and who they are for is available here.


  • Our average DBSprocessing times to complete checks during October were:
    • Basic DBS & Basic Disclosure Scotland: 2.2 days
    • Standard DBS checks: 2.3 days
    • Enhanced DBS checks: 5.9 days


October 2020:

  • The DBS has confirmed that Fast-Track COVID DBS Checks continue to be available. More info on Fast-Track COVID DBS Checks here.

July 2020: Fast-Track COVID-19 DBS Checks continue to be available

  • More info on Fast-Track COVID-19 DBS Checks  here

25 June 2020: Improvements to our Employee Credit Checks.

We’ve updated and improved our Employee Credit Checks.  

You will still be getting an Experian check, but they will now also include searches by Equifax. 

We believe this change results in an improved, more rounded and more thorough check of the individual.

  • The Credit Check Candidate Consent Form has been updated to reflect this change and ensures it is compliant with current regulations.  Please ensure you use the new Credit Check Candidate Consent Form from now on.  It is available to download here.
  • The Credit Check Order Form has been rationalised so you no longer need to provide an individual’s previous address history or name history.
  • The Credit Check Report we send you will have a different look.  It is now simpler and easier to understand.  New Sample Credit Check Reports are available for you to view/download here.

This is with immediate effect.

Detailed information about our Employee Credit Check service is available here and here.


Fast-track Emergency COVID-19 DBS Checks available from 30th March 2020. 

19th March 2020: DBS ID Checking Change due to Coronavirus. 

The DBS have introduced temporary changes to the DBS ID Checking procedure whereby ID Checkers can use scanned copies of ID to verify applicant's details. 

ID Checkers do NOT need to see the original ID documents.

The DBS announcement is here:  https://www.gov.uk/government/news/covid-19-changes-to-standard-and-enhanced-id-checking-guidelines

18th March 2020: Coronavirus Update page added to our website

This will provide you with important information regarding the Coronavirus and it's impact on our services and DBS procedures: Coronavirus Update page

February 2020: DBS Check Process Explained

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has launched a video that explains the process for a standard and enhanced DBS check.

January 2020: System Upgrade and 6 Easy Ways to Avoid DBS Delays

Upgrade to our System: 4th Feb 8am - Midday.

Please be advised that we will be deploying an upgrade to our online DBS application system to enhance the service and performance of the system.

This upgrade will be deployed on Tuesday 4th February, starting at 8am and lasting approximately 4 hours.

The system will be inaccessible to ALL users during this period.

Please see below 3 key updates which will be deployed as part of this release.

  1. Automatic Withdrawal of Un-progressed applications that are more than 1 year old – i.e. in the “Awaiting verification section”.  This is to ensure our system stays compliant in line with GDPR and Data Protection.
  2. Additional field added to application forms – A new field will be presented on all DBS/DS application forms asking whether the application is being filled in on behalf of the applicant, and if so, will require the user to provide their details and confirm they have consent to fill it in on the applicant’s behalf.
  3. Google Chrome autofill disabled – If you or your applicants have autofill enabled on Chrome, the browser will not be able to use this feature on the online DBS application form.  This will prevent incorrect data being automatically pre-populated onto the form (This may be an ongoing battle with Google as they release new versions of the browser.)



Regular updates progress of this System Upgrade will be provided to you on the day, via our “Log-in” page.

We apologise in advance for any inconvenience this may cause you.
 
 
6 Easy Ways to avoid DBS delays.
We are often asked how DBS applications can be sped up.

Here are 6 things you can do to avoid delays or even or even the rejection of DBS or Disclosure Scotland applications:
 
1. Only request the Type/Level of DBS needed for the applicant’s role
Don’t fall into the trap of asking for extra “just in case”.  An application will take longer to process if more than one workforce type is requested e.g.: Child and Adult Workforce. 

If you don’t need it don’t ask for it.

This could also lead to you accessing more in-depth criminal record information than the Law allows

Use the DBS Eligibility tool to help you determine the correct Type/Level of DBS check needed.
 
2. Full Five-year Address History
Top of the list as the most common reason for delayed or rejected DBS checks are errors with address history.

Emphasise to applicants the importance that they provide a full and accurate 5 year address history, specifically:

  • Provide Flat Numbers where applicable and provide correct Postcodes.  Tell them to use the UK Postcode Finder hyperlink that we provide on the form to check it is correct.
  • Include accurate ‘from’ and ‘to’ dates, in format mm/yyyy.
  • If they have had a DBS check before they must ensure they provide the same address history as on their previous DBS application.  The DBS compare information from old DBS applications with new DBS applications.  If there is a mis-match this leads to queries which causes delays.

 
3. Current Name & Current Address
This must exactly match the Name and Address provided on the applicants ID. 

If it doesn’t don’t submit it.  The best course of action is to ask the applicant to create a new DBS application form. 

The extra 5 minutes that this takes at this stage is worth it.  Inaccurate names and addresses results in delays with the DBS that can take months to resolve.
 
 
4. Terrible Typos
High on the list of common issues are typos.

For example:  Make sure all names are spelled correctly. Beware of typos or similar sounding names, when it comes to a DBS application, Aimee is not Amy.
 
 
5. Don’t Forget the Past
Any previous names – whether it’s a different forename, middle name or surname – must be included.

Check that the applicant has given all names by which they’ve been known. Where possible, they must also supply documentary proof to support their name changes.
 
 
6. Missing Middle Name?
The applicant’s full name must be declared, including middle name(s).

All names on a DBS application are run against the Police National Computer and any discrepancies flagged. When relevant, the police release this information onto the certificate. 

Omission of Middle Names will lead to delays and potentially inaccurate information on a certificate.
 
 
For more information of our products and services please visit our website:  www.dbsdirect.co.uk
 
All the Best,
 
The Team at Mayflower
Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd


Online DBS checks, Disclosure Scotland checks, Access NI checks, External ID Validation & Employee Credit Checks.

2019 News / Updates

Christmas & New Year Opening Times 2019/20:

Our office will be closed at certain times over Christmas and the New Year, and a limited telephone service will be provided on some days, but you'll still be able access our online services and submit online applications as normal, every day. 

  • Tuesday 24th December 2019 (Christmas Eve):  The office will be closing at 12 midday.
  • Wednesday 25th December 2019 (Christmas Day):  The office will be closed.
  • Thursday 26th December 2019 (Boxing Day):  The office will be closed.
  • Friday 27th December 2019:  Office open; limited telephone service.
  • Monday 30th December 2019:  Office open; limited telephone service.
  • Tuesday 31st December 2018 (New Years Eve):  The office will be closing at 12 midday.
  • Wednesday 1st January 2020 (New Years Day:  The office will be closed.
  • Thursday 2nd January 2020:  Office open; limited telephone service.
  • Friday 3rd January 2020:  Office open; limited telephone service.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you, your colleagues and families a wonderful Christmas and Best Wishes for 2020.  We look forward to continuing our relationship in the coming year.

Please don't hesitate to 
contact us if you have any problems or queries. 

 

Best Regards,
The Team at Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd

October 2019:Minor changes to the appearance of physical DBS certificates

From 30 October 2019, there will be a minor change to the appearance of physical DBS certificates.

 

The organisation that prints certificates is upgrading their printers in line with developments in print technology. This will increase the sustainability and longevity of certificates.

 

Due to this change, the purple  text (print), and purple lines on a physical certificate will appear as a lighter colour. The paper however will remain the same, as will current security features of a DBS certificate.

 

More information about the security features of a certificate can be found on the DBS website:  https://www.gov.uk/government/news/minor-changes-to-the-appearance-of-physical-dbs-certificates

September 2019: DBS Price Reduction 1st October 2019   

We have Good News! DBS Prices are coming down.


From 1st October 2019 the DBS are reducing their fee for Basic, Standard & Enhanced DBS Applications.


This will be reflected in our Prices (inc VAT) as follows:


Type of Check                  Current Price               Price from 1st October 2019

Basic DBS check               £39.39                           £37.39

Standard DBS check         £40.39                           £37.39

Enhanced DBS check       £58.39                            £54.39

 

This will apply to the DBS applications you submit to Mayflower for processing from 1st October onwards.


It is important to highlight that there will be no change in price for the following:

  • Basic Disclosure Scotland applications
  • Volunteer DBS applications
  • DBS Adult Firsts
  • AccessNI applications
  • External ID checks
  • Credit checks

Our full New Price List is available to view here: https://dbsdirect.co.uk/prices.php#NewPriceList

 

Did you know we now offer AccessNI checks?

We are also pleased to announce that we now offer AccessNI checks. 


These are criminal record checks for people who live or work in Northern Ireland. 


Further information about AccessNI checks is available on our website: https://dbsdirect.co.uk/accessni-checks.php


If you would like AccessNI checks to be added to your account please let us know, and we will arrange this for you.

September 2019: A Copy of the Official DBS Notification of Fee Reduction & notice ofthe DBS Supplier Change:    

Disclosure and Barring Service  

02/09/2019

 

Dear Registered Body/Responsible Organisation,

We are writing to inform you about reductions to our fees and the transition to new external supplier services. 

Fee Reduction 

On 15 July 2019, the DBS laid secondary legislation before Parliament to reduce our fees with effect from 1 October 2019.

The key changes are as follows:

Type of DBS check          Current DBS fee                                 DBS Fee from 1 October 2019

                                           (excl Mayflower admin fee & VAT)   (excl Mayflower Admin fee & VAT)

Basic DBS check               £25.00                                                  £23.00

Standard DBS check         £26.00                                                  £23.00

Enhanced DBS check       £44.00                                                  £40.00

The fee for the Update Service will remain the same, at £13 per year.

The fee for Standard and enhanced volunteer applications will remain the same.

We will publish this information on www.gov.uk/dbs in advance of 1st October.

DBS remains committed to driving good value for money and will ensure that our fees are set appropriately, in line with managing public money principles.

Supplier Service Transition 

DBS are in the process of transitioning services currently provided by our external supplier TCS. There should be no significant changes to how you interact and work with DBS as a result of this transition.

The services are being split between two contracts, one for Technology Services and one for Contact Centre Services. This approach allows us to source specialist suppliers and helps give us greater control of the services being provided. 

What does this mean for Registered Bodies?

We are transferring systems as they are now. How you work with and interact with the DBS should not change and we are anticipating minimal changes to processes as we transition.

We are not anticipating any impacts to service levels as we transition services to the new suppliers.

Which suppliers are taking over services?

DBS have followed the Crown Commercial Services process to find suppliers that best meet all of our requirements. Home Office, Cabinet Office and HM Treasury have approved the decisions and the contracts have now been formally awarded.

CGI UK IT will be providing DBS Technology Services. CGI specialise in IT solutions and have significant experience working with UK central government.

HGS will be providing DBS Contact Centre Services. HGS are part of the Hinduja Group which operate internationally. They have experience in both public and private sectors, currently delivering multi-channel contact centres across the UK.

These are capable and experienced suppliers who will help support DBS in continuing to provide the high level of service offered to all our users.

When will this happen?

DBS are in the processing of preparing for transition now. We anticipate this transfer of services will take place in mid-2020. The current supplier will continue to provide services until this takes place.

Regards,

DBS Relationship Management Team

July 2019: Introduction of DBS Withdrawals Policy

Effective from 1st August 2019, the DBS are introducing a Withdrawals Policy which will impact how you process DBS applications. 

This email contains important information.  Please pass it on to all of your DBS Application Managers/ID Checkers so they are aware of this
 

Introduction of the DBS Withdrawals Policy

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) will introduce a Withdrawals Policy from 1stAugust 2019 where the DBS will no longer be able to amend applications where they identify incorrect information in the following fields:

  • 5 year address history / undisclosed addresses
  • Workforce Type *Standard/Enhanced DBS only
  • Barred List Check requests *Standard/Enhanced DBS only
  • Working At Home *Standard/Enhanced DBS only

  
The Process

If the DBS identify an error/omission in any of the above fields on a DBS application form they will:

  1. Query this with Mayflower. 
  2. Mayflower will send you an email asking for clarification.
  3. If you confirm that an error/omission on the DBS application form was made the DBS will withdraw the DBS application, unprocessed with no refund.
  4. A new application will need to be submitted and paid for


The DBS operate a “No Refunds” policy.  

Once a DBS application has been countersigned by Mayflower and is with the DBS being processed no refunds can be issued. 

There are no exceptions to this.  This is DBS Policy and it is out of our control.

For DBS applications submitted prior to 1st August, the DBS will continue to apply amendments, however DBS applications submitted after this date will be subject to the DBS withdrawal policy.
 

Mayflower working on your behalf

We lodged a complaint to the DBS regarding the introduction of their Withdrawal Policy, particularly in relation to incomplete addresses. 

This was their response:

“If the application is withdrawn because of an error or omission, a refund will not be given. This is non-negotiable.

If the error is because the applicant failed to declare an address to you that he should have, then it is not unreasonable to expect that the applicant should pay for the replacement application. 

I (the DBS) appreciate that there is no way for you to know when an applicant has withheld an address and so I (the DBS) imagine that you will want to consider what measures or controls you might put in place, that will assist and protect your identity checker, at this stage of the application process. 

This may be something as simple as a checkback with the applicant, to tell him about the policy on undisclosed addresses (including having to pay again) and to ask if there are any additional addresses that he wants to declare.”
 

Steps you can take

We recommend that you review the guidance that is available on the Mayflower and DBS. 
Specific Website Links are provided below for your reference

If you are opposed to the introduction of this Policy, have your voice heard and raise a Complaint with the DBS: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service/about/complaints-procedure
 

General Guidance:

 
 
Detailed Guidance:
 

 
If you have any queries or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Best regards,
Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd
 
Website: www.dbsdirect.co.uk
 
Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd is an approved Registered Body and Umbrella Body with the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service).

April 2019: AccessNI checks 

We now offer AccessNI checks - these are criminal record checks for people who live and/or work in Northern Ireland.  Further information is here.


January 2019: TheDisclosure and Barring Service (DBS): What they do.

A new video has been created to showcase some of the work that takes place within DBS.

2018 News / Updates

 

Christmas & New Year Opening Times 2018/19:

Our office will be closed at certain times over Christmas and the New Year, and a limited telephone service will be provided on some days, but you'll still be able access our online services and submit online applications as normal, every day. 

  • Monday 24th December 2018 (Christmas Eve):  The office will be closing at 12 midday.
  • Tuesday 25th December 2018 (Christmas Day):  The office will be closed.
  • Wednesday 26th December 2018 (Boxing Day):  The office will be closed.
  • Thursday 27th & Friday 28th December 2018:  Office open; limited telephone service.
  • Monday 31st December 2018 (New Years Eve):  The office will be closing at 12 midday.
  • Tuesday 1st January 2019 (New Years Day:  The office will be closed.
  • Wednesday 2nd January 2019:  The office will be fully operational, our normal service resumes.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you, your colleagues and families a wonderful Christmas and Best Wishes for 2019.  We look forward to continuing our relationship in the coming year.

Please don't hesitate to 
contact us if you have any problems or queries. 

 

Best Regards,
The Team at Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd

November 2018: DBS News: Edition Three

Read the latest edition of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) newsletter.

This edition includes updates on:

  • Identity checking guidance
  • Eligibility in the NHS
  • Reducing recruitment fraud

2017 News / Updates

 

December 2017:  ID Changes, Updated User Guides & Christmas Opening Times.

This newsletter provides information about:

  1. Acceptable ID List Changes that are used for applicant ID Verification (for Standard, Enhanced & Basic checks)
  2. New User Guides available to view and download
  3. Christmas & New Year Opening Times

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DBS (Standard & Enhanced) Acceptable ID List:

The List of Acceptable ID that can be used to verify an applicant's ID has been amended by the DBS. 

This changes the ID you need to see for Paid Non-EEA applicants.  They will be required to show you ID documents that are in line with the "Proof of Right to Work" checks that you follow during recruitment.   Please note:  There is no change to the ID you need to see for UK or EEA applicants.

Our system will be updated on Tuesday 19th December 2017 to reflect this change


View and Download the New List of Acceptable ID for DBS checks (Standard and Enhanced).

Our DBS (Standard & Enhanced) User Guides have been updated to reflect the ID Change the forthcoming Application Manager Dashboard change:

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Basic Applications (Basic DBS & Basic Scotland) Acceptable ID List:
As a result of the introduction of Basic DBS checks, there will now be 2 x different lists of acceptable ID for Basic applications - One list for Basic DBS checks and another list for Basic Scotland checks):


Our Basic Application (Basic DBS & Basic Scotland) User Guides have been updated to reflect the introduction of Basic DBS checks - these provide system screenshots that you will find informative:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Christmas & New Year Opening Times:

Our office will be closed at certain times over Christmas and the New Year, so a limited telephone service will be provided, but you can still access our online application system and submit online applications as normal. 

  • Friday 22nd December 2017:  The office will be closing at 12:30pm
  • Saturday 23rd to Tuesday 26th December 2017:  The office will be closed.
  • Wednesday 27th December to Friday 29th December 2017:  Office open; limited telephone service.
  • Saturday 30th December 2017 to Monday 1st January 2018:  The office will be closed.
  • Tuesday 2nd January 2018:  The office will be fully operational, our normal service resumes.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you, your colleagues and families a wonderful Christmas and Best Wishes for 2018.  We look forward to continuing our relationship in the coming year.

Please don't hesitate to 
contact us if you have any problems or queries.

 

Best Regards,
The Team at Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd

December 2017:  Introduction to online Basic DBS checks - Go Live Date 19th December 2017.

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) will shortly be providing Basic DBS checks in addition to Standard & Enhanced DBS checks.

We are pleased to announce that the DBS has appointed Mayflower Disclosure Services as a “Responsible Organisation” which means that we are an approved provider of online Basic DBS checks.

We will be offering online Basic DBS checks from the 19th December 2017.

Basic DBS checks are the lowest level of criminal record check available that provides details of any unspent convictions an applicant has and can be obtained by anyone for any reason.

From 19th December 2017, two types of Basic Disclosure checks will be available:

  1. Basic DBS checks provided by the DBS (available for applicants living/working in England and Wales). 
  2. Basic Scotland checks provided by Disclosure Scotland (available for applicants living/working in Scotland). 

Both types of Basic Disclosure checks will be available to you through our online application system.

The price for Basic DBS checks will be the same as the current price we charge for Basic Disclosure checks.
 

System Changes

No system changes will be made for Standard or Enhanced DBS applications.

Basic Disclosure applicants will still login via the Blue Login box, as they do now. 

Basic Disclosure applicants will be automatically routed by our online system, to the correct type of Basic application form (i.e.: Basic DBS or Basic Scotland), by answering a couple of “routing” questions which will determine whether they live/work in England and Wales or Scotland.
 
It is important that Basic Disclosure applicants are routed to the correct online Basic application form because
 
 
Dashboard Change
 
The process of verifying and approving an application will remain the same.
 
However, the Application Manager/ID Checker Dashboard will be re-designed to accommodate the fact that there will no longer be a simple split between DBS processing Standard/Enhanced level applications and Disclosure Scotland processing Basic applications.
 
The Dashboard will be consolidated to one overall dashboard as opposed to two separate DBS and Disclosure Scotland dashboards (see screenshot below). 

 
 
Other Information
 
The requirements for Standard/Enhanced DBS checks remains the same.
 
It is important to note that a Basic DBS check will NOT be sufficient for people who require a Standard/Enhanced DBS check; for example those working in schools, care homes or hospitals or working in care/healthcare roles/FCA roles.
 
However, a Basic DBS check used with or without an Employee Credit check could complement your existing employment screening tools, as you can obtain these for staff that are not eligible for Standard/Enhanced DBS checks.
 
If you don’t currently obtain Basic checks from us but would like to have access to the Basic DBS/Basic Scotland application system when it goes live, please request this here.
 
 
We will be updating our User Guides and our website accordingly during the forthcoming weeks and we will keep you informed of these changes as they happen.
 
In the meantime, if you have any concerns or queries please don’t hesitate to contact us.
 
We provide the following online services:

  1. Standard and Enhanced DBS checks
  2. Basic DBS checks
  3. Basic Scotland checks
  4. Employee Credit checks
  5. External ID Validation checks

 
If you would like further information on any of these services please contact us.
 

Sincerely,

Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd

August 2017:  DBS Basic Disclosure checks coming soon.

****Basic DBS Checks are coming soon (expected October 2017) Click here for more information. ****

January 2017:  Announcing the launch of our refreshed website 

We’re excited to announce that our new and refreshed website is live.

The updated site includes changes to navigation, with drop-down menus for both mobile and desktop versions.

We’ve also improved the structure of our content, so more information is available and you’ll get more from a quick read.

There’s a whole host of smaller but impactful changes, all to make your experience of the new site that much better for you.

We hope you like the changes, and if you have any feedback, please let us know via our Contact Us page.

2016 Update / News

 

December 2016: Christmas and New Year Opening Times

The following arrangements have been put in place for this year's festive period when contacting the Mayflower Disclosure Services office.

Our office will be closed at certain times over Christmas and the New Year, but you can still access our online application system as normal. You can continue to submit online DBS and Basic Disclosure applications throughout this period, in effect it will be similar to a weekend where the applications will be held in a queue. 

  • Friday 23rd December 2016:  

The office will be closing at 12:30pm

  • Saturday 24th to Tuesday 27th December 2016:

The office will be closed.

  • Wednesday 28th December to Friday 30 December 2016:

Office open; limited service.

  • Saturday 31 December 2016 to Monday 2nd January 2017:

The office will be closed.

  • Tuesday 3rd January 2016

The office will be fully operational.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you, your colleagues and families a wonderful Christmas and best wishes for 2017, and we look forward to continuing our relationship in the coming year.

Best Wishes

Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd

October 2016: Announcement from the DBS regarding the Basic DBS Check launch - postponed to June  2017.

Announcement from the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service):

"We (the DBS) anticipated that we would be able to launch the Basic Check service for England and Wales on 1 January 2017, with additional functionality to follow later in the year. While the system has developed well and progress has been encouraging, we have also identified a number of areas that need further work and enhancement.

As a result we have decided to change the handover date for the Basic Check service from Disclosure Scotland. We’re now working towards a revised handover date at the end of June 2017, to allow us, and our partners, more time to ensure a smooth transition from Disclosure Scotland.

We are aware that many of you have started making the changes to your systems and we apologise for any inconvenience or disruption this may cause you. However, we will not compromise on quality or security and we hope that you understand that"


September 2016: Basic Disclosure checks to become Basic DBS checks

The Disclosure and Barring Service will soon be processing Basic Disclosure checks (updated 24th September 2016):  

Basic Disclosure checks are currently processed by a government agency called Disclosure Scotland.  We are an approved by Disclosure Scotland to provide online Basic Disclosure checks.

The DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) will soon be processing Basic Disclosure checks for residents in England and Wales.  

We are registered with the DBS to provide Basic Disclosure checks when they start to offer them (planned to be from 1st January 2017 onwards). We will be providing an online Basic DBS application service through the relevant government agency for residents who live in England, Wales or Scotland. 

The DBS have not yet announced the fee they will charge for Basic DBS checks yet, but we do not envisage it to be much different than the current price of Basic Disclosure checks.

We will be operating the current application process (with Disclosure Scotland) until the change over to the DBS is activated.

July 2016: Employee Credit Checks coming soon

We are excited to inform you that we will be soon be offering Employee Credit Checks in addition to the other services that we currently offer. 

An Employee Credit Check can give you the peace of mind that your candidates have no history of financial mismanagement.

This is of vital importance if you are recruiting for a role that involves the handling of money, accounts or sensitive data.

July 2016: New password requirements for your Application Manager/ID Checker accounts

To further enhance system security, we have made a change to the password requirements for your Application Manager and ID Checker User accounts.

When you next log-in, the on-line system will prompt you to change you Application Manager/ID Checker password.

Your new Application Manager/ID Checker password can be the same as your old one but now also needs to contain one special character eg: "!"

The new Application Manager/ID Checker password criteria is as follows:

  • It must be at least 8 characters long
  • It must contain one capital letter
  • It must contain one lower case letter
  • It must contain one number
  • It must contain one special character


To prevent any problems logging in after you have changed you password, we recommend you a make note of your new Application Manager/ID Checker password.

We hope that this change does not cause you any problems when trying to access your account and we thank you for your understanding.  

 2015 DBS Updates/News:

December 2015: Christmas and New Year Opening Times

The following arrangements have been put in place for this year's festive period when contacting the Mayflower Disclosure Services office.

Our office will be closed at certain times over Christmas and the New Year, but you can still access our online application system as normal. You can continue to submit online DBS and Basic Disclosure applications throughout this period, in effect it will be similar to a weekend where the applications will be held in a queue. 

  • Thursday 24 December:  

The office will be closing at 12:30 pm

  • Friday 25 - Monday 28 December

The office will be closed.

  • Tues 29 December - Wednesday 30 December

Office open; limited service.

  • Thursday 31 December 

The office will be closing at 12:30 pm.

  • Friday 1 January 2016 - Sunday 3 January 2016

The office will be closed.

  • Monday 4 January 2016

The office will be fully operational.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you, your colleagues and families a wonderful Christmas and best wishes for 2016, and we look forward to continuing our relationship in the coming year.

Best Wishes

Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd

March 2015:  Make a note of the new telephone numbers for DBS customer services 


From Monday 9 March you can get in touch with the DBS on new telehone numbers.
 
DBS helpline: 03000 200 190
 
Welsh language line: 03000 200 191
 
Minicom: 03000 200 192
 
The current 0870 numbers the DBS use cost between 2p-10p from a landline and 21p-41p from a mobile. The new 0300 numbers cost the same to call as 01 or 02 landline numbers.
 
By law, 0300 numbers must be included in tariff bundles including free minutes for mobile and landline packages.
 
The old 0870 telephone numbers will not be switched off for at least six months to allow you time to adjust, but please start using any of the DBS 0300 numbers from today.
 
If you are an employer and have any correspondence displaying the DBS customer service numbers, please make sure you update it to show the new 0300 numbers.
 

2014 DBS Updates/News:

 December 2014: Christmas and New Year Opening Times

The following arrangements have been put in place for this year's festive period when contacting the Mayflower Disclosure Services office.

Our office will be closed at certain times over Christmas and the New Year, but you can still access our online application system as normal. You can continue to submit online DBS and Basic Disclosure applications throughout this period, in effect it will be similar to a weekend where the applications will be held in a queue. 

  • Wednesday 24 December:  

The office will be closing at 12:30 pm

  • Thursday 25 - Friday 26 December

The office will be closed.

  • Monday 29 December - Tuesday 30 December

Office open; limited service.

  • Wednesday 31 December 

The office will be closing at 12:30 pm.

  • Thursday 1 January 2015 - Friday 2 January 2015

The office will be closed.

  • Monday 5 January 2015

The office will be fully operational.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you, your colleagues and families a wonderful Christmas and best wishes for 2015, and we look forward to continuing our relationship in the coming year.

Best Wishes

Mayflower Disclosure Services Ltd

 15 December 2014: DBS Online Tracking errors

The DBS have reported that their online DBS tracking service is experiencing some problems with reporting what stage an application is at.

 You may find that the system is reporting that your certificate has been printed but the application could still be in progress.

The DBS working as quickly as possible to fix this problem and apologise for any inconvenience this may cause you.

 In the meantime, if you need to know what stage your application is at you can email the DBS customer service team or call them on 03000 200 190.

Please refer to the DBS website for more information: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/dbs-online-tracking-service-errors

October 2014: List of DBS Acceptable ID Documents has changed

Here at Mayflower (dbsdirect.co.uk) we are constantly working on ways in which the DBS application process can be streamlined and the online DBS system can be updated to meet any changes in procedures and policies made by the DBS.   

You have been sent this newsletter because you are the Primary DBS Application Manager within your Organisation. Please forward this newsletter to any other DBS Application Managers / ID checkers within your organisation.

In order to comply with DBS identity checking rules, our online application system has been updated to reflect the recent changes made by the DBS to the identification rules.

These changes should help you complete the ID check, in particular, for applicants from the EU who do not have a current valid passport of UK driving licence.

A summary of the ID changes within the the online DBS application system are:
  1. Adoption Certificate (UK) – this is now a Group 1 form of ID
  2. EU photo Driving Licence (with Counterpart where available) – photo Driving Licences from EU countries are now classed as a Group 1 form of ID
  3. Photo Driving Licence (All Countries) where a Counterpart has been issued but not presented – a photo Driving Licence from any Country can now be used as a form of ID even though the Counterpart hasn’t also been presented. This is a Group 2a form of ID
  4. EU paper Driving Licence - paper Driving Licences from EU countries are now accepted and classed as a Group 2a form of ID
These enhancements will be implemented on Thursday 2nd October 2014.  

To view and download the current list of acceptable ID documents for DBS applications, please click here
 


 

Contact us

If you have any queries with the information detailed on these release notes please contact us

User Guides to reflect the changes due to made in this release of the system.   These provide step-by-step guidance and screenshots on using our online DBS Application system.  Please click the link below to visit the Customer Resources/Links section of our website and download the updated system User Guides.

Information about DBS Checks, Basic Disclosure Checks, PVG Checks and External ID Validation Checks is available on our website: www.dbsdirect.co.uk 

March 2014: Improvements successfully implemented to our online DBS application system

Here at Mayflower (dbsdirect.co.uk) we are constantly working on ways in which the DBS application process can be streamlined and the online DBS system can be updated to meet any changes in procedures and policies made by the DBS.  

Download a new user guide here

We have made a number of changes to the online DBS application system we offer in order to enhance and improve the system. These enhancements will be implemented on Tuesday 11th February 2014.  Please be advised that the system will be unavailable whilst the update takes place, we anticipate this to take approximately 1 hour. 

User Guides to reflect the changes due to made in this release of the system.   These provide step-by-step guidance and screenshots on using our online DBS Application system.  Please click the link below to visit the Customer Resources/Links section of our website and download the updated system User Guides.

The improvements are detailed below:
________________________________________________________________
 

Self-service password reset

A facility has been added to allow users to be reminded of their Organisation Reference and to reset their own password if this has been forgotten. This facility can be found once the green ‘Application  Management’ box has been selected (screenshot below). 

If a user has forgotten their Organisation Reference, they can use the ‘Forgotten your login details?’ section to retrieve this. Once this has been clicked, they will be taken to a new screen that requires them to enter their username and DOB, if their log-in credentials are recognised within the system they will receive an automated email reminding them of their Organisation Reference (screenshot below).

If a user has forgotten their password, they can use the ‘Forgotten your password?’ section to reset this. Once this has been clicked, they will be taken to a new screen that requires them to enter their username and DOB. If their log-in credentials are recognised within the system they will receive an automated email providing them with a new one-time password (screenshot below).


Please note as part of a security feature within the system, if a user enters a username and date of birth that is not recognised on the system, they will not receive a message onscreen advising them that their details have not been found. This is to prevent any unauthorised access to the system with intruders persistently trying to guess log-in credentials until they receive a successful message.


Result Snapshot available for ‘Clear’ DBS applications

Since the DBS Single Certificate changes introduced in July 2013 and following intensive consultation with the DBS, a result can be displayed as long as it is does not mirror a DBS certificate or use the DBS logo. To utilize this facility for clear applications, a ‘Result Snapshot’ will now be available to view online via your Application Manager section, in place of what used to be a DBS certificate. The ‘Result Snapshot’ will be accessible by clicking the ‘Certificate contains no information’ wording in the Status column from the Application Complete folder or from the Overview of a completed clear application (screenshot below).



Once the ‘Certificate contains no information’ icon has been clicked, this will open the Result Snapshot onscreen. This snapshot will only be available on applications that are still in the Application Complete folder and haven’t been archived due to being over 180 days old. The Result Snapshot will contain the following information and will only be available for clear applications.



Please note that the Result Snapshot is for information purposes only, it does not represent a DBS certificate or act as a DBS certificate alternative. We always recommend you check the official hard-copy DBS certificate that is posted to the applicant.  The information contained within the snapshot is not to be viewed by or passed to any individual who does not have the appropriate authority to view it.



Preset/configurable job roles available

To help reduce the number of applicants entering an incorrect job role in the ‘Position Applied For’ section of the DBS application, we have introduced a new feature allowing you to pre-set the job roles available for on the online system. If job roles have been pre-set by you, when the applicant reaches the ‘Position Applied For’ question on the application they will have to choose their job role from a drop-down list rather than keying this in manually (see screenshot below).



If you would like to utilize this facility to preset job roles, please contact us



‘Certificate Chase Letter’ available to download for DBS applications with ‘Content’

Another addition to the system to accommodate the Single Certificate changes brought in by the DBS is the facility to download a ‘Certificate Chase Letter’ on applications with content.

This letter can be used to send to applicants that you are still waiting on them to present their DBS certificate to you for the recruitment decision to be made. This letter will open in Microsoft Word and therefore can be edited before printing.





‘See Paper Disclosure’ folder on Dashboard replaced with ‘Awaiting Applicant Certificate’

Now that a you no longer receive hard-a copy of a completed DBS certificate, the ‘See Paper Disclosure’ folder on the Application Manager Dashboard has become redundant.

However this will now be renamed ‘Awaiting Applicant Certificate’ and will make better use of the folder. Completed applications with content will now move from the ‘Processing’ folder in to both the ‘Application Complete’ folder and the ‘Awaiting Applicant Certificate’ folders. This will now give you a clear list of which completed applications have content and require sight of the applicant’s certificate to view the content (see screenshot below).






Warning message displayed when YES selected for volunteer and working at home questions in Section Y

To help reduce the number of incorrect DBS applications submitted,the online system will now flag a warning message when YES is selected to either the ‘Is Volunteer’ or ‘Working with vulnerable groups at home address’ questions at Section Y.

We hope that these additional flags will help in reducing the number of applications incorrectly marked as a volunteer or incorrectly stated as working at home, which should in turn reduce the number of queries received from the DBS, reducing processing delays.

 

Running custom reports; specifically to find "Applications Complete"

Aside from the email notifications your Primary Application Manager receives when each check is completed, you can run a report from the online application system which will detail all the applications (and their details) that have been completed between 2 specified dates.

To do this:
1.  log-in to Application Manager section of the system
2.  Select “Reports” link in top-right hand side of page
3.  A selection of pre-loaded reports will appear on your screen.
4.  Ignore these and click on the button ”Customer Reports”
5.  Select the criteria you require (including date ranges) and Select the fields you require on the report.  Suggested fields are:  Application Type, Certificate No, Cert Result, Cert Issue Date

You can then download the report into pdf or excel.


‘Find Application’ tool available for ID Checker user privilege

An enhancement has been made to the ‘ID Checker’ level of access to provide these users with the ‘Find Application’ tool that is currently available to higher levels of access. This facility should greatly improve the user experience for an ID Checker if they have a particularly large list of applications to work through and want to search for a particular application without having to scroll through pages of applications (see screenshot below).




Contact us

If you have any queries with the information detailed on these release notes please contact us

User Guides to reflect the changes due to made in this release of the system.   These provide step-by-step guidance and screenshots on using our online DBS Application system.  Please click the link below to visit the Customer Resources/Links section of our website and download the updated system User Guides.

Information about DBS Checks, Basic Disclosure Checks, PVG Checks and External ID Validation Checks is available on our website: www.dbsdirect.co.uk
March 2014: Disclosure and Barring Service; limited availability
The DBS will be suspending some of their services from Thursday 6th March to Wednesday 12th March 2014.

You have been sent this newsletter because you are the Primary Contact according to our customer database.  Please forward this email to any work colleagues that are involved in the DBS Application process within your Organisation.
 
  • From 6th-7th March DBS staff will be taking Industrial Action
  • From 7th-12th March the DBS are suspending some services because they are making changes to their IT systems.

The following services provided by The Disclosure and Barring Service will be unavailable during this period:
  1. DBS tracking service will be unavailable - DBS applications will be processed but you will not be able to track them via the DBS tracking website.  Any links to the DBS tracking website from our website will not work
  2. DBS Adult First checks will be unavailable - DBS Adult First (previously called ISA Adult First or PoVA First) requests cannot be made and results will not be issued. Please do not request DBS Adult First checks during this time period as they will not be processed.
  3. DBS Call Centre will provide a very limited service
Whilst the DBS only envisage the above services to be affected until 12th March, the above services may well be unavailable after after this date.

We envisage that this disruption is likely to cause a knock-on effect to DBS application processing times (Standard and Enhanced level).  Please prepare for DBS applications that you submit during March, to take longer than current processing times.  We will do everything we can to ensure your applications are processed as quickly as possible

Please note, the Disclosure and Barring Service provide the above services.  These disruptions are out of our control.  If you have any questions, or would like to discuss this matter further, please contact the Disclosure and Barring Service directly on 03000 200 190.

This will not affect the Basic Disclosure application service or processing times-frames for Basic Disclosure applications, submitted via the government agency Disclosure Scotland.

Sincerely,

Mayflower Disclosure Services
www.dbsdirect.co.uk

2013 Updates/News:

24 October 2013:  Volunteer, Home Based and Workforce Type: How to get it right ...

There has been a number of changes to completing the Application Manager section of the DBS Application form.  This newsletter  summarizes these changes and highlights common errors.  

Getting these thing rights is key to preventing delays in the processing of DBS Application:

1.  What roles are eligible to be submitted as Volunteer DBS Application
2.  Is the Applicant working at their home address (home based)
3.  What is the Workforce type and how do I complete it
4.  Choosing the correct barred list
5.  Overview - Completing Section Y correctly
6.  AOB: Current DBS processing time-frames




1.  What roles are eligible to be submitted as Volunteer DBS Application

What is a Volunteer?
 
Volunteer applications are eligible to receive a reduced fee.  Inappropriate use of volunteer application creates a financial burden on other fee-paying applicants and is in contravention of the DBS Code of Practice.  The DBS will take action if they believe that inappropriate volunteer applications are being submitted knowingly.
 
DBS defines a ‘volunteer’, as:
 
‘A person engaged in an activity which involves spending time, unpaid (except for travel and other approved out-of-pocket expenses), doing something which aims to benefit some third party other than or in addition to a close relative.’
 
To qualify for a volunteer check, the applicant must not:
 
• Benefit directly from the position for which the DBS application is being submitted.
• Receive any payment (except for travel and other approved out-of-pocket
  expenses).
• Be on a work placement.
• Be on a course that requires them to do this job role.
• Be in a trainee position that will lead to a full time role/qualification.
 
By indicating that a post is a volunteer on the DBS Application form you confirm that the post meets the DBS definition for a free-of-charge volunteer application. Please note that DBS will recover the full application processing fee if this is marked in error.
 
Please read carefully through the case studies in the following table based on common volunteer errors. Any of the following will not be submitted as volunteer applications and will be charged the full price.
 
 
Examples of eligible and ineligible volunteer roles
 

Position applied forVolunteer eligibilityDBS Reasoning
Parent helpers in schoolsEligibleThis activity is entirely voluntary, is unpaid and is primarily aimed at providing a service to a third party
 
Scout/GuideEligibleThis activity is entirely voluntary, is unpaid and is primarily aimed at providing a service to a third party
 
Adoptive parents and other household members over 18 years oldEligibleThis activity is entirely voluntary, is unpaid and is primarily aimed at providing a service to a third party
 
Foster carers and members of the same household over 18 years oldIneligibleFoster carers usually receive payments for these activities therefore the DBS deem that neither foster carers nor other members of the household over 18 years old are entitled for Volunteer DBS Checks
 
Individuals working abroad on volunteering projectsIneligibleThese persons usually receive payment of a local salary, and lump sum payments, above and beyond what could be described as “travel and other approved out-of-pocket expenses”. Therefore the DBS deem that these roles are not entitled for Volunteer DBS Checks
 
Medical/teaching/social work student on work placement, as part of trainingIneligibleThis activity is a mandatory course requirement, is usually paid and is primarily undertaken to benefit the student
 

2.  Is the Applicant working at their home address (home based)

How to get Home Based Question right:  
Is the applicant working with vulnerable groups at the applicant's home address?

This question is commonly completed incorrectly, and causes significant delays in the processing of applications when completed incorrectly.


What you need to consider before completing the application:
  • Where does the applicant (whether in voluntary or paid employment) carry out the main duties of the job?
  • Does the work take place at the applicant's own home address, or does it take place in somebody else's home?
If the applicant is working from their own home address, providing a service or care from the place where they live - then answer 'yes'.

If the applicant is providing a service or care outside the place where they themselves live, and going to somebody else's home - then answer 'no'.

To help you understand more about how to correctly answer, we have reviewed a sample of incorrectly completed forms and highlighted common errors for you:

  • Medical professions - Student Nurse /medical student/doctor/practice nurse/psychologist/physiotherapist.
We understand some medical professionals are asked to administer health care to people who cannot visit a surgery or health care centre; however, they are carrying out their work in thepatient's own home. Therefore, this is not a home based occupation.

There may be times when a medical professional has their surgery in a part of their own home. You need to determine whether this should be classed as a home based occupation. Overall, the majority of applications for medical positions are not home based occupation.




3.  What is the Workforce type and how do I complete it

Workforce Type explained
 
You must now include the relevant workforce(s) on your application.  The accurate completion of both of these fields is critical because they are needed for the consideration of relevance by the police. Choose from the following:
 
• 'Child Workforce': Use this for any position that involves working/volunteering with children: e.g.: regulated activity (caring/teaching) or if the role is in a specified place i.e.: school, crèche etc.
 
• 'Adult Workforce': Use this for any position that involves working/volunteering with adults. e.g.: caring or if in a place i.e.: care home, social housing.
 
• 'Child and Adult Workforce': Use this for any position that involves working/volunteering with both children and adults. Both scenarios/groups detailed above.
 
• 'Other Workforce': Use this for any position that does not involve working/volunteering with children or adults e.g. security guard / financial / legal services.

 


 

4.  Choosing the correct Barred list

- Adults Barring list:  This checks if the applicant is barred form working with vulnerable adults.  A job role can only have the barred lists checked for vulnerable adults if they are doing certain roles for example;providing care or healthcare to an adult (full details of eligibility criteria can be referred to here)

Working with Adults in Regulated Activity:  Select "Yes" only if the role is eligible for the adults barred list check

- Children's Barring list:  This checks if the applicant is barred form working with children.  A job role can only have the barred lists checked for children if they are doing a specific role for example;providing care, teaching, supervising or if the a working in a childcare premises on a frequent basis such as a school, nursery, children's care home (full details of eligibility criteria can be referred to here )  . 

Working with Children in Regulated Activity:  Select "Yes" only if the role is eligible for the children's barred list check

 



5.  Overview - Completing Section Y Correctly
For future reference, when completing section Y of DBS Applications please select the following:

-Level:  Standard or Enhanced (whichever is applicable) - refer to eligibility criteria

-Workforce:
    - Adult workforce (if they are dealing with adults or adult information).
    - Child Workforce (if they are dealing with children).
 
-Working with Adults in Regulated Activity :  "Yes" if the role is eligible for the adults barred list check.

-Working with Children in Regulated Activity :  "Yes" if the role is eligible for the children's barred list check.

-Working with vulnerable groups at the applicant's home address: "Yes" if the applicant working with vulnerable people in their own home e.g.: Foster Carers.

-Is Volunteer: "Yes" if the role meets the DBS definition of a volunteer

-DBS Adult First Check Required:  This is only available for care home staff
 
It is important the categories in section Y are correct as it affects what the DBS certificates can be used for when they are issued.

 



6.  AOB:  Current Processing time-frames

- Are your applications affected by police force delays?

The DBS are currently experiencing delays in the processing of DBS Applications.
Please try to factor this in when planning on submitting applications.   We recommend you submit applications for processing at the earliest opportunity to ensure you receive the result in time.

Factors currently resulting in processing delays:

  1. The provisions of the Protection of Freedoms Act introduced on 17 June created a lot of changes for the police forces
  2. This also coincided with the DBS busiest time of the year when incoming volumes are at their peak.
The DBS have apologized if current delays in processing has caused a direct impact and are working hard to bring their service back to normal levels.

We are doing everything we can to ensure your applications are processed as quickly as possible.  We automatically "chase" the DBS and police on your behalf if they do not meet their service level agreement regarding processing times.



Questions?
Our FAQ documents can also be view by clicking on the links below:

If your question is not answered by our FAQ's, please don't hesitate to contact us.

DBS (CRB) Changes - 17 June 2013: are you ready? 

The DBS are introducing the following changes effective from 17th June 2013:

1. Applicant-only certificates 

2. Changes to completing the "Position Applied For" field on DBS application form 

3. DBS Update System 

4. Conviction History question on DBS application form 

We have tried to anticipate questions you may have regarding these changes so there is also a list of FAQs included at the end of this article.


1.  Applicant-only certificates 

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Effective from 17th June 2013, the DBS will stop issuing two DBS certificates.  A DBS certificate will only be sent to the applicant.  You (the employer) will NOT be sent a DBS certificate; even if it contains any criminal record information.

I use Mayflower's On-line DBS Application system, how does this affect me?

* The big change is the PDF result for clear applications will no longer be available on-line, and you will not be sent a certificate in the post if it is not clear.

* However, you will continue be notified by email when each DBS check is completed.  This email will tell you if a DBS result is clear or if you need to to see the Disclosure.  If you need to see the Disclosure you should ask the applicant to show you their DBS certificate.

* You will also be able to track the processing of your applications via the Application Manager log-in (as you can now).


I use the Paper DBS Application system, how does this affect me?

* You will not receive any notifications that checks have been completed.

* You will not be sent a DBS certificate.

* To track the progress of DBS Applications, you will need to make a note of each Application Form Reference number (10 digit number starting with F00) and the applicant's DOB , before you submit them for processing and then track them via: https://secure.crbonline.gov.uk/enquiry/enquirySearch.do.

* You will need to ask the applicant to show you their DBS certificate when it arrives.

* We strongly  recommend that organisations switch to our on-line application system.  You will then receive automatic emails providing status updates and result notifications.


On-line set-up is free and there is no price difference between the paper and on-line system.  Applications are being completed on average in 8 days from the receipt of a correctly completed application form with no further queries.  If your applicants do not have access to computers, you can enter their details onto an on-line application yourself, as long as you have their permission (we can provide you with a form to obtain their permission).

Please email us if you would like to start using our on-line DBS Application system.  Set up is simple and you can get started straight away.

2.  Changes to completing the "Position Applied For" field on DBS application form 

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Due to a change in legislation, you now need to complete the Position Applied For (job title) field differently.

I use the On-line system:  You don't need to do anything - the system is being re-designed to accommodate this, and you will be prompted to answer a new question relating to the type of workforce the applicant works with.

I use the Paper system:  You now need to complete field x61 on the back page on the application form differently to show the type of workforce the applicant will be working with:


Action Required - paper users (not applicable for On-line users). Please complete the field as follows:

x61 line 1: You must now include the relevant workforce(s). Choose the appropriate:

•    'Child Workforce': Use this for any position that involves working/volunteering with children: e.g.: regulated activity (caring/teaching) or if the role is in a specified place i.e.: school, crèche etc.

•    'Adult Workforce': Use this for any position that involves working/volunteering with adults. e.g.: caring or if in a place i.e.: care home, social housing.

•    'Child and Adult Workforce': Use this for any position that involves working/volunteering with both children and adults. Both scenarios/groups detailed above.

•    'Other Workforce': Use this for any position that does not involve working/volunteering with children or adults e.g. security guard / financial / legal services.

x61 line 2: Enter a description of the ‘position applied for’ up to 30 characters.


3.  DBS Update System 

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From 17th June 2013 applicants can subscribe to an update service so they can use their DBS certificate with another employer when they change jobs.  This will be Applicant-led; they can subscribe themselves when their new certificate arrives and will pay a subscription fee directly to the DBS.

If a new employee/volunteer shows you a DBS certificate they already have, check the certificate details carefully and that it meets your requirements, i.e.: name, address, DOB, level of disclosure, workforce and that the correct barred list(s) have been searched.  Ask the applicant if they are subscribed to the Updating Service.  The applicant will then give you their update details so you can check if their certificate is valid via the DBS website.

For further information on the Update Service please contact the DBS on 03000 200 190.


4.  Conviction History question on DBS application form 

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From 29 May 2013, the DBS will be removing certain specified old and minor offences from criminal record certificates issued from this date.

On-line users:  This question will be updated accordingly, so applicants simply need to answer the question asked on the on-line form.

Paper users:  The question on the paper application form (e55) asks:  'have you ever been convicted of a criminal offence or received a caution, reprimand or warning?'

Applicants should now ignore this question and instead treat this question as if they were being asked:  'do you have any unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings?'


FAQ'S - 17th June 2013 Changes

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Certificates:  What will I (the Organisation) receive? 

If you use our on-line application system, you can track the progress of applications and you will be notified by email when checks are completed.  These emails will tell you if a DBS certificate is clear or if you need to see the Disclosure.


Why Applicant-only certificates? 

The government have introduced applicant only certificates so individuals are in more control over their personal information.


Will a check submitted for processing before the 17 June be processed under the current rules in regards to the Registered Body/Employer receiving a copy of the DBS certificate?

No, if an application is submitted to the DBS prior to the 17 June but is still in progress after this launch date it will be issued as a single certificate that will be sent to the individual.

Can we get the applicant to pay for their DBS check? 

Yes, you can ask applicants to pay.  You still need to manage the application process and check the ID of applicants, however if you use our on-line application system, we can arrange it so the applicant pays for their own DBS check when they complete their part of the on-line form.


Why Change the Position Applied for field?  

Due to a change in legislation, the Police will now use this broader definition of 'workforce' to assess the relevance of any information that they may consider for release, in place of 'position applied for'.


Will this change mean less information is released by the police? 

This change should not reduce the information and will enhance the relevancy of their  decision making.


What if the Applicant doesn't receive their certificate? If the applicant did not receive their DBS certificate they need to contact the DBS by calling 03000 200 190.


What if the Applicant has lost their DBS certificate? The applicant should call the DBS on 03000 200 190.


Applicant has lost their certificate but can provide me with their certificate number, is this OK? 

No, this is of no use to you.  You must insist on seeing the original DBS certificate and that it meets your requirements, or they must apply for a new one.


As an employer do I have to wait a set length of time before I can request to see an employee’s certificate?

No, an employer can request to view an employee’s certificate as soon as they know it has been completed and issued to them by the DBS.

Applicant won't show me their certificate: 

You need to see their certificate to ensure they do not have a criminal record that may affect their job.  If an applicant refuses to show you their certificate we may be able to obtain a copy for you 28 days after the issue date; however this will only be available under very strict criteria (yet to be defined by the DBS);  This will also incur an additional charge.


Do we (the organisation) have to pay for DBS checks or can we ask applicants to pay?  

Yes, you can ask applicants to pay.  You still need to manage the application process and check the ID of applicants, however if you use our on-line application system, we can arrange it so the applicant pays for their own DBS check when they complete their part of the on-line form.


Can I get a copy of the DBS certificate?  

No, you need to see the applicant's certificate.


Can I (the Organisation) subscribe the applicant to the Update service? 

No, this is applicant-led and the choice of the applicant.


Do I have to use the Update Service or can I just carry on with obtaining DBS Checks according to my recruitment and DBS renewal policy? 

Yes you can continue with your existing process.  The update service is an optional service offered to applicants; you can carry on obtaining DBS checks in the usual manner.


When the applicant shows me their DBS certificate can I keep it or make a copy to keep in our files? 

You can only retain a copy of the DBS Certificate with the applicant’s permission. If you do, you must store this copy in line with the DBS policy on Storage and Retention of Disclosure information and the Data Protection Act. See the sample policy on the storage of Disclosures in the Customer Resources/Links section of our website:  www.dbsdirect.co.uk.


If the applicant is subscribed to the Update system and I get a status update on an applicant's DBS certificate can I pass this on to other people/employers/organisations? 

No, this information is confidential to the applicant.  You cannot pass status updates to other employers or organisations or other people.  The applicant must give other employers/organisations direct approval, and give them the information they need so they can get their own status update from the DBS website.  Please contact the DBS on 03000 200 190 for more information. 


Can we as an employer pay extra to still receive a copy of the certificate?

No, regardless of paying extra, the DBS will only issue a copy of the certificate to the employee. 


Will we still receive an e-mail notification from the online system upon completion of a check?

Yes, the system will still be able to send e-mail notifications advising of a completed DBS result. You will still be able to log into the system any time to see if any applications have moved into the ‘Application Complete’ folder, so you still can find out when an application has been completed.


How will the online system change for us as the employer?

The main functionality of the system will not change and you will still continue to check ID/complete Section Y and track applications as normal – the main changes will be in the ‘Application Complete’ section. Within this section, you will no longer be able to click on the ‘Clear’ icon in the status column to view an on-screen certificate, you will also no longer be able to download the certificate in a PDF document. You will however, still be able to see the certificate data online (i.e. employee’s name, DOB, certificate number, issue date) and for clear applications, the system will display a Certificate contains no information message.

 

What if the certificate has content? Will we receive a copy then?

No, you will still not receive a copy if the certificate contains content. You will still need to view the employee’s copy to see the content. The online system will however display a Please wait to view applicant certificate message for applications that have been completed and have content on them.


Will the online system inform the employee that they must produce their certificate to their employer?

Yes, if the employee enters an email address on their application they will be asked to show you their DBS certificate when they receive it in the post.


Can we as an employer chase Mayflower Disclosure Services to see if a certificate has been completed if we still process our applications on paper?

No, the employee can chase the DBS directly for an update on the status of their application. Mayflower Disclosure Services will receive no communication through the post upon completion of a paper application – for this main reason alone, we strongly recommend the switch to online processing.


Have the recent changes regarding Workforce and the conviction wording been added to e-Bulk?

Yes, both of these recent announcements will be incorporated into e-Bulk from 17 June. The new Workforce category will become a mandatory question within Section Y and the conviction wording has been amended on the application form to ‘Do you have any unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings?’.

 

27th March 2013: Single DBS Certificate - change due Spring 2013 (date to be confirmed by DBS)

The DBS will be issuing a single Certificate from Spring 2013 (official date to be confirmed by the DBS).  At the moment, 2 x certificates are issued per application.

  • Upon completion of a DBS Check, only one certificate will be produced by the DBS.  This will go directly to the applicant, no certificate will be issued to the employer.  
  • Organisations will be reliant on applicants to show them their DBS Certificate.
  • Organisations will still be able to track and view completed applications through our online DBS Application system, but will no longer be able to view/print/download a certificate.
  • Click here to view and download a document outlining these changes and FAQs.
Do you use the paper DBS Application method?

Once this change has been implemented, organisations who submit paper DBS Applications will not receive any notifications that checks have been completed.  We therefore strongly  recommend that organisations switch to our online application system.   

Online set-up is free and there is no price difference between the paper and online system.  Please Contact Us if you would like to start using our online DBS Application system.  

26th March 2013Filtering of old and minor convictions and cautions

The Home Office has started the legislative process (subject to agreement by Parliament) so that certain old and minor cautions and convictions will no longer be disclosed on a DBS certificate.
 
This action is in response to the Court of Appeal judgement in January this year which stated that the disclosure of all cautions and convictions on a DBS Certificate was incompatible with Article 8 of the Convention for Human Rights.
 
Since the judgement, the DBS have been working very closely with the Home Office to develop a set of filtering rules that would remove certain old and minor convictions and cautions from a DBS certificate. The filtering rules which are now before parliament for consideration are:
 
An adult conviction will be removed from a criminal record certificate if:
 
(i) 11 years have elapsed since the date of conviction
(ii) it is the person's only offence and
(iii) it did not result in a custodial sentence.
 
Even then, it will only be removed if it does not appear on the list of specified offences. If a person has more than one offence, then details of all their convictions will always be included.
  • An adult caution will be removed after 6 years have elapsed since the date of the caution - and if it does not appear on the list of specified offences.
  • For those under 18 at the time of the offence:
  • A conviction received as a young person would become eligible for filtering after 5.5 years - unless it is on the list of specified offences, a custodial sentence was received or the individual has more than one conviction.
  • A caution administered to a young person will not be disclosed if 2 years have elapsed since the date of issue - but only if it does not appear on the list of specified offences.
 The changes will not come into force until after the legislation has completed its passage through Parliament. Until then, it's business as usual.

We will keep you informed of this process and provide more information to you as soon as it is available.
1st February 2013: New DBS Paper Application Forms introduced
The DBS has introduced new paper application forms.  The old CRB paper application forms can no longer be used.  If you use our paper-based application process and need some of the new DBS Application forms please order some by contacting us.

Please destroy your old CRB Application forms as they are not valid and can no longer be used.
30th January 2013: Disclosure & Barring Service - Court Ruling.

The recent court ruling does not affect roles that are eligible for DBS (CRB) Checks.

 
Under law, once the DBS receives an application from the employer or registered body, they must divulge all convictions (subject to the level of check and the rules that apply). Critically, it is always up to the employer to evaluate the relevance of the convictions or reprimands in relation to the role for the purposes of safeguarding.
 
If an employer is using a long and distant conviction that is not at all relevant to the role as a means to decline the candidate, then this is a discrimination case against the employer, not against the Home Office and the concept of the DBS.
 
Nowhere in the legislation does it stipulate that any conviction is an automatic bar to employment in a regulated role. It is up to the employer to assess the relevance and risk to the organisation and then decide accordingly.
 
While Criminality Disclosures will, until further notice, remain a significant aspect of Pre-Employment Screening, it is important to note that best-practice background screening relates to a much wider variety of research, including verifying the candidate’s employment history and academic qualifications, confirming the identity documents provided and, where appropriate, checking visa and work permit information.

 If you are concerned about the implications of the ruling on best-practice Employment Screening or have any questions about this, please contact us.
 

Bacground Information regarding the recent ruling: 

The Court of Appeal has ruled that blanket Criminal Records Checks are ‘not compatible’ with sections of the Human Rights Act. 

 
The draft ruling came after a decision was made that Criminality Checks, such as those provided by the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly the CRB) may prevent a person’s right to a private or family life, and was originally made on 21 December 2012 but was not revealed at the time, amid concerns as to the implications for the future of background checks and the DBS.
 
The draft ruling came to light after the case of 21-year-old ‘T’, who had failed at a job application due to a criminal records check, which had disclosed conviction from ten years previous, when he was just 11. Corinna Ferguson, legal officer for human rights group Liberty, said:
 
 "The overzealous CRB system has allowed old, minor and unreliable information to wreck the lives of too many hardworking people in the UK.
 
The government can't put off dealing with this any longer. We look forward to seeing urgent proposals for a proportionate system that properly balances the aim of public protection with privacy rights."
 
Ms Ferguson’s views are apparently supported by Lord Dyson, who, according to reports by the BBC, insisted that the Government “pull its finger out” over the issue, and claimed that it was something the government had known about “for some time”.
 
The success of DBS (formerly CRB) checks in preventing unsuitable people from entering the workplace are undeniable by employers across the country – the BBC report that figures from the Criminal Records Bureau in March revealed that the Standard and Enhanced Disclosures had prevented ‘over 130,000 unsuitable people, including rapists, pedophiles, from working with children or vulnerable groups’. A spokesperson for the Home Office announced:
 
‘The protection of children and vulnerable groups must not be compromised’. and stated that the Home Office is seeking to appeal the judgement.
 
 If you are concerned about the implications of the ruling on best-practice Employment Screening or have any questions about this, please contact us.

2012 Updated and News:

 12th December 2012: Our email/website address has changed.

As a result of the recent change in name from CRB to DBS, we are changing our email and website address to:

dbsdirect.co.uk

Please update your details with this change and forward this email on to your colleagues.

To ensure a smooth transition, our old email addresses and website address are still active and will be re-directed to dbsdirect.co.uk

For more information on the change from CRB to DBS and how this will impact you, please refer to our newsletter introducing this change, that was sent out on 20th November: 

If you have any problems or queries, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Best regards,
Mayflower Disclosure Services
website:  dbsdirect.co.uk
 

1st December 2012: CRB is changing it's name to: The DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service)

On 1st December 2012, the CRB will merge with the ISA (Independent Safeguarding Authority) to become the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service).  The DBS will be an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by the Home Office.

The Criminal Record Checking service and Application process will remain the same; however from 1st December 2012 CRB Checks will be known as DBS checks.  CRB Certificates will be known as DBS certificates.

FAQ's regarding DBS Checks:

1.  My staff / volunteers have CRB Checks - will these become out-of-date on 1st December 2012? 
No, you will not need to obtain new certificates just because of the name change.  The CRB certificates will remain valid until their routine renewal date, when you will then obtain a DBS Check for them.

2.  Do I need to get new DBS Certificates for my existing staff / volunteers?

You can obtain DBS certificates when the CRB certificates for your existing staff / volunteers reach their routine renewal dates. 

3.  Will the application process change?

- Online / eBulk applications:  there is no change to the online application process.  You will just notice references to the DBS where it previously referred the CRB.

- Paper applications:  the paper application forms have been re-designed.  They are now titled "DBS Application forms".  You can use the exiting CRB Application forms until February 2013, but they cannot be processed after this date.  If you would like us to send you some DBS forms to replace your current stock of CRB forms, please contact us.

4.  Is the eligibility Criteria Changing?

No the eligibility criteria for DBS checks is the same as it was for CRB Checks.

5. Can I still obtain ISA Adult First Checks (previously called PoVA 1st)?

Yes, but they will now be known as DBS Adult First Check.  You can still request these checks in the same way you do now.

6.  What does DBS stand for? 

DBS stands for Disclosure and Barring Service.

7.  Where can I find more information about the DBS?

Further information about this change can be found by going to www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crbischanging



CRB Eligibility Criteria will change from 10th September 2012

The Government has reviewed the eligibility criteria for CRB Checks and is introducing changes to the eligibility of CRB Checks from 10th September.

We do not envisage that this will result in too much change for our customers.  If your staff/volunteers are in roles that are eligible for CRB Checks before 10th September 2012, their roles will still be eligible after September 10th.

The Main Points regarding the changes are:

- Three levels of CRB Check will be available (instead of 2) :

    1. Standard level CRB Check
    2. Enhanced level CRB excluding the barred list check
    3. Enhanced level CRB including the barred list check ie: it will check if the applicant is barred from working with children or vulnerable adults).
- There are NO changes to eligibility criteria for Standard CRB Checks.

- If you currently obtain Enhanced CRB Checks for your staff/volunteers; you need to review the criteria to determine which level of Enhanced CRB you can obtain for them from 10th September ie: whether you can request a barred list check or not.

- The minimum age for a person that you can obtain a CRB Check on will be increased to 16 years old.


Questions?
  • Q1. What if my applicant is barred from working with children or vulnerable adults, but I am not able to request a check on the barred list?
If you are not able to request a barred list check, but the applicant is barred, it is likely the police will include it on the CRB; under "the other relevant police info" section of the CRB certificate.
  • Q2. Does this mean my existing CRB Checks are now out of date? Do I now have to get new CRB Checks for all my staff or volunteers?
No. This change does not affect CRB checks you already have. You do not need to renew exisitng CRB checks until they reach their normal renewal date
If your question/s have not answered, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Further Information:

Download the documents below for further information on the changes, which have been issued by the Government and Government departments:



 August 2012: We now offer online Basic Disclosure applications!

Basic Disclosure checks can be obtained for ANYONE that lives in the UK.  They check if the applicant has any unspent convictions and you receive a hard copy certificate for your records.

We are pleased to announce that we can now offer Basic Disclosure Applications online! No Fuss, no paper work and a fast service!

Please contact us for more information.

July 2012:New CRB Identity Checking Guidelines Introduced

The CRB Identity checking guidelines have changed. 

The new criteria and process was implemented from the 28 May 2012, with a phasing-in period of three months. This is to allow organisations time to bring existing processes in to line with the new requirements. From 1st September 2012, all ID checks should be carried out in line with the new guidance.

Our online CRB application system will be updated with the new process on 20th August 2012.  From this date onwards, all online CRB Applications will need to follow the new Identity Checking guidelines.

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** Click here if you are a CRB Registered Body or
an organisation that does not submit CRB Applications through  Mayflower;
requiring External ID Validation checks for CRB Applications
. **

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7th June 2012: Update on forthcoming changes to ID checking

The Home Office and the CRB are changing the ID checking process for CRB Applications.  This will become compulsory on 1st September 2012. 

Prior to this date, the existing ID checking process will continue.  Our online CRB Application system will incorporate the new ID checking requirements from 1st September 2012.  The CRB are still finalizing some details regarding the new procedure. 

Please click on the following link for the latest information issued by the CRB:  CRB - New ID Checking Guidelines (info. issued 7th June 2012)

25th May 2012: Information regarding the new identity checking guidelines

To help you comply with the new ID Checking guidelines and to provide enough time to introduce them into your identity (ID) verification procedures, the CRB will run both the new and existing guidelines in parallel from 28 May until the 31 August 2012, when the existing guidelines will cease to apply.

Important – Please be aware:

If you are using the new guidelines from 28 May:-

· You will be unable to use Route Two in the new guidelines as we are currently in the process of finalising details of the external ID validation check that will form part of Route Two.

· If the applicant cannot be processed by Route One, then you should go to Route Three, or consider checking identity using the existing guidelines.

· As a result of feedback from our customers; for all non-UK residents, we advise you to follow the existing guidelines as the new guidelines are presently being reviewed for applicants from overseas.

The CRB website is also being updated to reflect any changes, including frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) at www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crb. We recommend you check the website on a regular basis to keep abreast of any updates.

Kind regards,

Steve Long

CRB Chief Executive

17th May 2012: IMPORTANT - IDENTITY CHECKING GUIDANCE IS CHANGING

From 28 May 2012, the CRB will be introducing enhancements to identity checking guidelines. These new guidelines will apply to all applications for a CRB check.

To help you comply with the new guidelines and to provide enough time to introduce them into your identity (ID) verification procedures, we will run both the new and existing guidelines in parallel from 28 May until the 31 August, when the existing guidelines will cease to apply.

This enhancement to the CRB’s ID verification guidelines is being introduced to strengthen the process used by Registered Bodies for validating applicants in order to improve public protection. In particular, the changes, which are a government priority, will make it more difficult for individuals to conceal previous criminal records by changing their identity. Therefore, the focus will be on requiring applicants, in the first instance, to produce documents that they would have acquired through undergoing stringent identity verification with the document issuer, such as the Identity and Passport Service or the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.

The changes to the identity checking process are designed to enhance the good working practices adopted by many organisations when verifying and validating the identity of those that they intend to recruit, appoint or licence.

The new ID checking process will have three routes, and incorporates the ability to use a new external ID validation check, which can be used by Registered Bodies for applicants who cannot provide the required documentation. Details of the new external ID validation services have yet to be finalised and I will write to you again as soon as more information becomes available.

The most frequently asked questions and the revised guidance are included within the content of this email. The revised ID Checking Guidance, effective from 28 May 2012 is also on the CRB website at www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crb

2011 CRB Updates/News

News item: Ebulk is live!

25 July 2011

After many months of planning and testing, Mayflower are pleased to announce that their online CRB application process is live. "We believe that our customers will find the new system innovative, user friendly and provide a fast and efficient way of providing CRB checks for their staff.  There is NO additional charge for this service, and it is available for all organisations registered with us, that require CRB Checks."

Registration with Mayflower is quick and free and puts you under no obligation. Register here!

News item: Ebulk in final stages of testing

25 May 2011

Mayflower will soon be offering their customers an eBulk facility so application will be done online. This will offer many benefits. The system is at the final stages of testing and is expected to go live soon.

Registration with Mayflower is quick and free and puts you under no obligation. Register here!

News item: CRB Fee increase announcement


14 March 2011

As a result of recent Government changes, the cost of an Enhanced CRB check will increase by £8 from 6 April 2011. This is the first time that CRB fees have increased since 2006. All other fees will remain unchanged.

The increase in the cost of an Enhanced CRB check is directly linked to the Government’s decision to scale back the VBS to more common sense levels, which has resulted in the cancellation of the requirement to register with the VBS. This fee increase will directly fund the administration costs of the retained elements of the Scheme, and is significantly lower than the intended registration fee of £64.

From 6 April 2011, the following fee levels will apply throughout the remainder of 2011/12.

  • Enhanced CRB check £44.00
  • Standard CRB check £26.00
  • ISA Adult First check £6.00

News Item: VBS Announcement

Today the Government has announced their intention to remodel the Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) back to proportionate, commonsense levels. As a result, the ISA-registration stage of the scheme has been stopped and therefore will not launch on 26 July 2010 as planned.


News item: Identity documents guidance

On the front of the new application form, the ‘identity documents’ guidance states that

‘At least one document must confirm your current address, as recorded in section b, and be no older than 3 months.’

Please note that this guidance is factually incorrect and should be disregarded. The CRB would like to apologize for any inconvenience caused in issuing this guidance as part of the new application form.

The correct guidance on identity documents is provided in the ID Checking Process section of the website. Please ensure that you refer to the online guidance regularly for the latest information and updated ID documents that can be accepted as part of the CRB process.

 

2010 CRB Updates/News


23 August 2010

News item: VBS Guidance

The Home Office has today published comprehensive VBS guidance which is broken down into sections providing background and scope of the scheme, barring arrangements and the effect on employees, volunteers and regulated activity providers. It also provides useful examples that will help you to understand your duties under the new arrangements and helpful timescales and transition arrangements that you should be aware of.


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