DBS check FAQs

For advice/information call 01922 453412 or any of our local DBS offices (see above) or……..

Frequently Asked Questions Relating to CRB applications:

What is a CRB check?

A Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check provides organisations with copies of any records held by the Police and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) of current or prospective workers (often through their recruitment process). These records cover the period from the workers age of 10 years old. Individuals are not permitted to apply for checks, only organisations! There are currently 2 levels of checks, Standard & Enhanced.

What is a CRB disclosure?

A disclosure is a “certificate” of the check and is issued to both the applicant and the organisation and reveals information of any convictions and can also include cautions, reprimands and warnings. This disclosure is used by the organisation (usually in the recruitment process) to make a safe, fair and just decision in placing the applicant in certain posts (usually those that come into contact with children and, or vulnerable adults).

What is an enhanced CRB check?

An Enhanced CRB check is the most revealing and not only reveals convictions but also, unlike a Standard check, cautions, reprimands and warnings. Enhanced checks are essential for placing the applicant with many positions involving children and/or vulnerable adults.

How much does a CRB check cost?

The cost can vary greatly but our total prices are very competitive, having no registration fee or VAT applied. Enhanced £55.99….Standard £37.99…..Volunteer £11.99….ISA Adult First £9. (see our Homepage for more details).

How do you get and complete a CRB application form?

Through Cloisters UK Ltd (a CRB Umbrella Body) who will forward a pack containing full instrutions, agreements and an initial requested number of CRB application forms. Closters will help the organisation to complete these tricky forms!

Can individuals apply for CRB checks?

No. Only organisations.

Can self-employed people apply for CRB checks?

No only organisations (an organisation is defined as business that has 2 or more employees and trades under a name (Company House registration is not needed).

How long do CRB disclosures last?

Indefinitely with 2 conditions (risk assessments!). The person has not had a break in employment for more than 3 months or controlling organisations/institutes/authoroties etc. request fresh checks.

What is a CRB Regulated Activity?

A CRB condition needed to be eligible to apply for disclosures and is where the work is carried out for at least once/week or 4 or more times/month or overnight in the same place and where there is opportunity for contact with children or vulnerable adults.

How do we apply for CRB applications?

Contact Cloisters for a free pack containing Application forms, Agreements and full instructions

How do we register for CRB processing?

Contact Cloisters for a free prospectus

How much is CRB registration?

Free with Cloisters!

How long does it take to get a CRB check?

Cloisters complete their checking withing 1/2 days. The time taken by the CRB only depends on the applicant (“it takes as long as it takes”). It will be longer if the applicant has……….

a criminal record(s), changed names, lived in several addresses in the last 5 yrs or lived abroad. Currently the average is 2 weeks but a few do take several months. There are no guarantees or promises offered!

Can you fast track CRB processing? No!

How do we get help to complete CRB Application Forms?

Cloisters provide detailed guides for organisations and applicants but we don’t mind if you call us and we can talk you through the diffiult form.

CRB checks for Volunteers?

Cloisters process application for volunteers and the CRB do not charge. See fees on our homepage

What is an CRB ISA Adult first?

Previously called a POVA. This is an initial temporary CRB check issued only to NHS/Care/Nursing homes etc where the patient’s health could be effected by staff shortages and is a stop-gap measure until the full disclosure is available.

What CRB documents have to be sent?

Cloisters do not need to see original or copies of documents. The organisation themselves will view and verify original valid documents.

What is CRB ISA registration?

A scheme that was to be introduced but has now been scrapped by the coalition government.