Using the DBS Update Service
Reviewed May 2023
Using the DBS Update Service to Register your DBS Certificate
Historically DBS certificates have not been transferable from one organisation to another. This has meant that every time a person starts work with children in a new organisation or in the case of the Diocese of Ely a new parish, a new certificate must be applied for. The certificate contains disclosure information about an individual’s criminal record at the time it is issued. The Ely Diocese requires renewal of DBS certificates every five years.
The introduction of the government run DBS Update Service enables you to register your new DBS certificate which will be permanently kept up to date and which you can take with you from role to role.
By registering the certificate the disclosure information can be checked online (only with your permission) by the Ely Diocese or other organisation and no further application is required.
Please note that the Ely Diocese does require other checks to be made about an individual and some documentation will need to be completed or inspected. This will include a Confidential Declaration form in which the person is asked questions relating to his/her criminal record and to declare that he/she has not committed any offences against children / vulnerable adults. It will also be necessary for individuals to provide contact details of two people who could give character references. This is part of due diligence which helps ensure that people appointed to work with children not only have clear criminal records but are of suitable character.
Important Notes
Only new DBS certificates can be registered and this must be done within 19 days of issue and I strongly recommend that all new certificates are registered.
This will be particularly helpful if a ringer wishes to become a member of the Association of Ringing Teachers who also require DBS certificates, but will accept them if they are registered with the Update Service.
There is no cost if you are a volunteer. You will receive notification on an annual basis asking if you want to continue be included in the Update Service
Further Information
Your local PCC safeguarding Co-ordinator
The Ely DA Safeguarding Officer: https://www.elydiocese.org/safeguarding/
The DBS Update Service: 0300 0200 190
The website for registration is https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service