What is the Dorset Council online DBS system?
The Dorset Council online DBS system is a fast, secure online route for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks of criminal records, provided by Dorset Council.
Why have I been asked to apply for a DBS check?
You may have been asked to apply for a DBS check if:-
• You are working with or have applied to work with children or vulnerable adults
• You have applied to be a volunteer with children or vulnerable adults
• You are working in healthcare
• You have applied to be a foster carer, childminder, or to adopt a child
• You are working for an organisation which provides a service for Dorset Council in an environment where children or vulnerable adults may be located
• You have access to highly sensitive data on vulnerable groups
Who qualifies as a volunteer?
A volunteer is defined as ‘a person who is engaged in any activity which involves spending time, unpaid (except for travelling and other approved out-of-pocket expenses), doing something which aims to benefit someone (individuals or groups) other than or in addition to close relatives'. The DBS do not charge for disclosures for standard or enhanced DBS checks for volunteers but an administration charge may still be applicable. Basic DBS checks for volunteers are chargeable.
Benefits of the Dorset Council online DBS system
The system offers real benefits including:
• A secure route for handling your sensitive data
• Elimination of most data errors through the auto-validated online form
• On-line guidance throughout the process
• No risk of the applications going astray in the post
• A much shorter processing time
• Tracking information available to managers, admins and applicants
How long does a DBS check take to process?
Once a form is submitted to the DBS the process takes an average of 5 days. However, some checks may take longer than this.
What if I need help?
The system is designed to be user friendly with help functionality available throughout to support users. If however you have any queries or require assistance please contact
HRDBSTeam@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk if you are applying to work in a school or for an external organisation, or contact hr_payrollsupport@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk if you will be working for Dorset Council in a non-schools capacity, or Tricuro.
Why is the check being completed through Dorset Council?
As a registered umbrella body with the DBS Dorset Council is able to process DBS checks on behalf of the authority and other organisations who provide services for the council under contract, or who undertake voluntary or charitable work which is supported by and supplements work undertaken by the council.
Can I have a reprint of my Disclosure?
Disclosures are only issued to the applicant. If you have lost your Disclosure and are asked to provide it, you should request for a new check to be carried out as unfortunately lost or damaged Disclosures cannot be replaced.
There is an error on a Disclosure from the DBS. What can I do?
If there is an error or you wish to challenge any of the information on a Disclosure, applicants must contact the DBS directly. Disputes must be raised with the DBS within the first three months of the date of issue of the Disclosure. Further guidance can be found on the DBS website
How do external organisations apply for Dorset Council to undertake DBS checks on their behalf?
As an umbrella body Dorset Council can undertake DBS checks for organisations that; provide services for the Council under contract, or undertake voluntary or charitable work which is supported by and supplements work undertaken by the council. Organisations who wish to apply for this service should contact the DBS Team at HRDBSTeam@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk