Request DBS checks and safeguarding advice for your organisation

Buckinghamshire Council is a Registered Body with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), authorised to carry out DBS checks for organisations.

We offer a secure, user-friendly online platform designed to streamline the processing of DBS applications for your organisation. Our service upholds compliance, efficiency, and transparency throughout the vetting process, helping you onboard staff and volunteers quickly and confidently.

Why choose us

24/7 Online Access: Submit and manage DBS applications anytime, from any device.
Real-Time Tracking: Monitor the progress of each application from submission to completion.
Automated Notifications: Email alerts at key stages of the application process.
Expert Support: Step-by-step guidance and access to our dedicated DBS support team, who have in-depth knowledge of DBS requirements and eligibility.
As a Local authority: We maintain high standards of data protection, GDPR and legal compliance.

How it works

Platform Setup: We create login accounts for your team, enabling them to initiate DBS applications directly through the online portal (access credentials).
Applicant’s input: As soon as the application is initiated, the applicant instantly receives their own access credentials, allowing them to log in and complete their DBS form online.
ID Verification: You verify identity documents and submit the application for processing via the portal.
Additional layer of quality check before submission: We conduct a thorough quality check of each section of the application. Provided no further clarification is needed, we submit verified applications to the DBS, within 2 working days of the ID verification being completed.
Processing Time: The average times for completion are around 1 day for Basic checks, 2 days for Standard and 10-15 days for Enhanced checks. Please note, Enhanced checks may take longer due to the added layer of police checks.
Escalation: We monitor all in-process applications, and proactively submit escalations if an application has been with a police force or law enforcement agency for more than 60 days.
Results & Certificates: You will receive an automated notification once the DBS check is completed, including the relevant details. The original certificate will be posted to the applicant’s current address, as provided on the DBS application.
Handling DBS certificates with content: We provide structured templates and clear guidance for managing certificates that contain disclosed information.

Client responsibilities

To ensure smooth processing, clients are expected to:

liaise with our team to manage relevant queries to avoid delays in the process.
ensure that each applicant’s details are complete, accurate and up to date.
follow DBS ID verification guidelines for Basic and Enhanced/Standard checks.
use the platform to monitor application progress.
process invoices within 30 days of receipt.

Note: A minimum of 5 DBS checks per year is required to register and maintain access to the platform.

Fees

Organisations are charged per DBS application processed:

DBS applications for paid staff	Check Fee	Admin Fee	VAT	Total
Basic	£21.50	£18.48	£3.70	£43.68
Standard	£21.50	£18.48	£3.70	£43.68
Enhanced	£49.50	£18.48	£3.70	£71.68
Enhanced with barred list	£49.50	£18.48	£3.70	£71.68

DBS applications for voluntary work	Check Fee	Admin Fee	VAT	Total
Basic	£21.50	£18.48	£3.70	£43.68
Standard	Free	£18.48	£3.70	£22.18
Enhanced	Free	£18.48	£3.70	£22.18
Enhanced with barred list	Free	£18.48	£3.70	£22.18

Please note: We are unable to carry out DBS checks for self-employed individuals. If your work involves contact with schools or care homes, you may wish to approach these organisations directly.

You can offer to cover the cost of the DBS check, should they agree to apply on your behalf.

Request our services

To enquire about getting DBS checks for your organisation, contact [email protected].