Criminal Check - FAQ (for Companies and Employers)

Why should we conduct pre-employment background checks?

Employers have a responsibility to check backgrounds of potential employees for the sake of good corporate governance. A failure to properly check employees can expose your business to a number of issues, such as high staff turnover, unnecessary costs associated with careless hiring decisions. By carrying out a background check your company will reduce expenses associated with retraining and turnover.

Why CRB criminal background check is being called DBS criminal background check now?

On 1 December 2012, the CRB (Criminal Record Bureau merged with the ISA (Independent Safeguarding Authority) to become the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service). DBS certificates have been issued since 1December 2012.

How long does it take to receive CRB check?

From the time the application has been received we process 90% of Basic checks in 10 working days, Standard Checks within 3 weeks and Enhanced checks in 2 to 4 weeks.

How much does a CRB check cost?

There are three different checks available: Basic, Standard, Enhanced. Please check our website. If you would like to process more than 5 CRB checks please contact us and we will quote for you special price for this service.

Volunteers receive these checks for free, however we charge a small administration fee of 10 GBP.

How secure is the information I submit?

All personal information received is stored in accordance to the code of practice set out by the Criminal Record Breau. Once the check has been completed, information is limited to end users

What happens to personal information once the CRB is complete?

Information is stored for a period of time that is required by the privacy legislation, audit purpose and the requirement of the client. The information should be destroyed as soon as possible or within a 6month period of its validation.

What professions qualify for CRB checks?

Education and training, Legal and law enforcement, Financial services, Medical and health services, Public and Welfare services, Sport and recreation. Individuals of other professions can also apply for CRB checks with no restrictions.

Is there something we have missed?

If there are anymore questions that have not been addressed, please let us know.