Due to the current COVID-19 Pandemic the UK Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has permitted a temporary relief in their identity verification requirements. DBS is now allowing candidate identity verification to be conducted via video link, or having the candidate provide scanned copies of identity documentation. This process is in place for Standard and Enhanced checks but will now include Basic level checks as well.
The DBS provided the following statements regarding the temporary accommodations:
“Currently, when validating ID documents, it is best practice to carry the examination out face-to-face, with a live video link as an alternative method. Under the current guidance, the ID checker must be in physical possession of the original documents so they can be checked for indicators of fraud.”
“As the public is being advised to work from home where possible, this is causing difficulties in receiving the physical documents and is delaying applications, and in some cases, preventing applications from being submitted.”
“To ensure that the necessary DBS checks can still be carried out, the DBS ID checking guidance will be changed for a temporary period. The change will come into effect immediately.”
The new changes allow for ID documents to be viewed over video link. If a video link is not an option than the following can be provided as an alternative:
- Scanned images can be viewed in advance of the DBS check being submitted.
- This should only be implemented for urgent cases where it is not possible to follow the normal identity checking guidelines.
Under the current guidelines the applicant must present all original versions of documents during their first day of employment or volunteering role. In addition:
- Similar relaxations were announced by Disclosure Scotland and AccessNI (Northern Ireland)
- Turnaround Times for DBS checks are being treated as a priority with the government committed. PM Boris Johnson said: “We are speeding up the DBS checks so they can be done in 24 hours and I want to thank and congratulate all the boroughs throughout this country for the way they are harnessing those volunteers.”
For live Disclosure and Barring updates, please refer to their website at: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service
You can view how Frasco Profiles is responding to the Coronavirus Pandemic by visiting our COVID-19 Updates.
