Frequently asked questions
1. Why is the CRB revising its identity checking guidelines?
The Home Office commissioned the CRB to look at a number of options to enhance the ID checking process that Registered Bodies currently adhere to when establishing an applicant?s identity. The new guidelines have been developed by the CRB to meet the government?s top priority of protecting the public.
Reducing the number of documents acceptable for ID verification will reduce people?s ability to use documents that are easily obtained or forged to assert their identity to obtain a CRB certificate, which could be used to secure a position of trust.
For more details please view the latest news story.
2. When do the new identity checking guidelines come into force?
The new process will be implemented from the 28 May 2012, with a phasing-in period of three months. This is to allow organisations time to bring existing processes in to line with the new requirements.
From 31 August 2012, all ID checks should be carried out in line with the new guidance.
For more details please view the latest news story.
3. How can I find the umbrella body search?
The umbrella body search can be found in the CRB services section of this website.
4. What were the reviews of the CRB and VBS?
The Vetting and Barring scheme (VBS) was set up to make sure all those who work with children and vulnerable adults are registered. The VBS is a partnership involving the Independent Safeguarding Authority and CRB and overseen by the Home Office.
The government recently undertook a review of the VBS and announced some provisions to revise its vetting and barring arrangements.
Read more about the Vetting and Barring scheme review.Sunita Mason, the government?s independent advisor on criminality information management, has been reviewing the broader criminal records regime.
Read more about Sunita Mason?s recommendations.
5. How do I find out if someone is eligible to get a CRB check?
The Exceptions Order to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 lists the types of work, employment or professions on which you can legally obtain a CRB check.
View the complete list of eligible posts and CRB Access Category Codes guidance.
The recruiting organisation is ultimately best placed to assess whether a Standard or Enhanced CRB check is required for a specific role, bearing in mind their legal and other responsibilities.
6. How do businesses apply to get potential employees CRB checked?
Only organisations who are registered to access the CRB checking service may submit applications. Some of these organisations or Registered Bodies may also offer an Umbrella service to undertake checks for other businesses who are entitled to obtain CRB checks but who are not directly registered with the CRB.
To find out more about becoming a registered body please visit the Business Link website.
To find a registered body who offers an Umbrella service please use the Umbrella Body search facility.
7. I am an individual, how do I apply for a CRB check?
You will need to speak to the person who told or asked you to apply for a CRB check. You will either be asked to complete a paper application form or to telephone the CRB application line.
You can find out everything you need to know about how to apply for a CRB check on Directgov.
8. I am self-employed, how do I get a CRB check?
Current legislation does not allow the self-employed or individuals to apply for a CRB check, as they cannot ask an exempted question of themselves. It is for the recruiting organisation asking the exempted question to assess an applicant's suitability.
However the following options are available:
- a self-employed person can apply for a CRB check by registering with an agency
- individuals are able to obtain a basic check from our colleagues at Disclosure Scotland. This provides individuals with details of any 'unspent' convictions
- alternatively, individuals are able to make a 'subject access' request to their local police force under the provisions of the Data Protection Act 1998, which will provide up-to-date details of any criminal records in the UK.
9. I have a previous conviction, what happens in this case?
Potential employers will decide whether somebody is suitable to work in a position. However, having a criminal record should not automatically bar you from a position that requires a CRB check. Read more about applying with a criminal conviction.10. Can my convictions be removed from the Police National Computer?
On the 19th October 2009, a judgement by the Court of Appeal supported retention of criminal convictions on the Police National Computer for policing purposes. In particular the police are obliged, under Part V of the Police Act, to provide the Criminal Records Bureau with access to all convictions held on the PNC.
Therefore, the stepping down of convictions is no longer undertaken. In effect this means that all convictions will be retained on the PNC until an individuals 100th birth date.
Read more about convictions.11. Can I track the progress of my CRB application?
The online tracking service provides customers and Registered Bodies with a facility to track the progress of CRB applications.
Find out more information about the online tracking service.12. My personal details have changed since I received my CRB certificate. Do I need to inform the CRB?
The CRB issues certificates solely to help employers reach a recruitment decision for the specific position for which it is sought. Our checks are conducted against the personal information that applies at that time.
The CRB will not issue a new certificate showing your amended details. You do not therefore need to inform us of any changes to your personal details after you have received your certificate. such as a change of name or address.
Each time you apply for a CRB check you must however provide your relevant personal details at that time.13. How long is a CRB check valid for?
Each CRB check will show the date on which it was printed.
CRB checks do not carry a pre-determined period of validity because a conviction or other matter could be recorded against the subject of the CRB check at any time after it is issued.
Find more information on the portability of CRB checks.14. Who sees the personal information that you collect in an application form?
Your personal information will only be seen by those whose jobs require them to do so. In practice, this means the CRB staff conducting the various checks that are necessary to issue you with a CRB check and with relevant organisations. Read more information about using personal data.
15. What is the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA)?
The ISA is a non-departmental public body (NDPB), sponsored by the Home Office. It is responsible for maintaining the two barred lists - the Children's and Vulnerable Adults lists. Find out more about the ISA.