How To Dispute DBS Check Results
The DBS replaced the CRB in 2012 and is responsible for issuing DBS checks. These checks ensure that employers can make safer recruitment decisions.
Due to the high volume of daily applications, small errors can occur such as names spelt wrongly for example. These errors need to be noticed as soon as possible so that all those parties involved can work on resolving and rectifying the issue. If you believe that there has been a mistake, then there are ways that you can raise a dispute with the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Types of DBS Check Dispute
There are two main types of DBS certificate disputes: profile disputes and disclosure disputes. It is important to know the difference between the two so that you can raise your dispute correctly.
Profile Disputes
A profile dispute occurs when personal information on the DBS certificate is incorrect. This could include your name, date of birth, gender, address details, registered body/counter signatory details, or your employer’s details.
Disclosure Dispute
Disclosure disputes are raised when there is incorrect information regarding a person’s criminal convictions on their DBS certificate. There are different ways that this information could be incorrect. For example, if the police have disclosed information that is not factually accurate. Another issue could be that there is a conviction on your certificate, but you have never committed that offence.
The complaints procedure for both disputes is the same – you need to contact the DBS and submit the relevant form to them. The appeals process begins as soon as you notice and report the error.
DBS Appeal Process
If you want to raise an appeal we advise you to send the application directly to the DBS within three months of the certificate issue date. It is important that you, or the body representing you, specify which information is incorrect when submitting the form.
If the information provided by the police is in dispute, then the DBS contacts the relevant police force to identify whether the error is genuine. If they find that the information was incorrect, then the DBS will rectify the error and reissue a certificate at no extra cost. This also applies to any other disputes where the DBS amended any errors on the certificate.
If a resolution to the issue becomes too difficult, then an Independent Monitor may be required.
Independent Monitor Review
If the dispute is difficult to resolve, or the police do not agree with the claim, then it is passed onto the Independent Monitor.
This can only be done if the objection is that the information is either:
- ‘not relevant to the position applied for’
- If the Independent Monitor agrees with your dispute, they will amend the DBS certificate.
If you want to find out more about disputing DBS Check results, or you have any other queries relating to DBS checks, then get in touch today.
