Help and Support
Who needs a DBS check?
The Disclosure and Barring Service enables organisations in the public, private and voluntary sectors to make safer recruitment decisions by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable for certain work, especially that involve children or vulnerable adults.
How long does a DBS check take?
Once a form is submitted to the DBS the process takes an average of 8 days. Some checks may take longer than this.
How do you complete an online DBS check?
The Recruiting Manager or Local People Team (for existing staff) will send login details to the applicant/employee/volunteer's email account to complete the online disclosure form. For any queries regarding completing the online application please contact the Recruiting Manager or Local People Team.
Does it work for applicants from outside the UK?
A DBS Check may not provide a complete picture of any criminal record which may or may not exist for applicants from outside of the UK. This is because the DBS cannot currently access criminal records held overseas; however in a small number of cases overseas criminal records are also held on the Police National Computer and these would be revealed as part of a DBS check.
How long are DBS checks valid for?
Any information disclosed on a DBS Disclosure certificate is only valid for the date of issue. Barnardo's current policy is to undertake a repeat check every 3 years (except for those working in certain Ofsted regulated services where repeat checks are carried out more frequently) .
DBS Online Update Service
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) update service lets applicants keep their DBS certificates up to date online and allows employers to check a certificate online.
How to register
Applicants can register online as soon as they have their application form reference number. This can be obtained from the Recruiting Manager or Local People Team. Or they can wait and register with their certificate number when they receive their DBS certificate. If so, they must do so within 19 days of the certificate being issued.
Further guidance on the DBS process