How To Fill In A DBS Check Paper Application Form The Right Way
Although it may seem pretty straightforward to complete a DBS check application form, it is important that application forms are submitted accurately to avoid any delays.
From simple mistakes like writing the wrong date, providing unclear documentation, there are plenty of ways that you can make errors within your application.
This guide will help you to avoid the common pitfalls and make sure that your DBS application goes smoothly.
Follow These Instructions
If you are filling out your DBS check application form on paper, by hand, then it’s vital that you follow ALL of the following advice.
1. Write in Black Ink Only
Don’t be tempted to use other colours such as blue or red, as they will be rejected. You can buy a cheap black biro from most supermarkets, newsagents or corner shops.
2. Write in Block Capitals
Block capitals are easier to read. It is much easier for the person processing your application if your application is written in clear, block capitals.
3. Pay Attention To Every Question
Don’t skim over any questions or jump to conclusions about what the question is asking without reading it thoroughly. Take time to answer each question clearly and accurately.
4. Include Your Full Name / Names
Make sure you write your full name, as it appears on your Driving License, Birth Certificate, or Passport. Include your middle name as it can help to differentiate you from other people with the same forename and surname.
If you have changed your name in the past 5 years due to marriage, divorce, or any another reason, don’t forget to include them on the form too.
5. Include Plenty Of Information
Don’t be afraid to go overboard with information. It’s better to provide too much information rather than not enough. The more info you give reduces the chance that the DBS people will have to contact you to clarify things. You don’t want to delay the application proces.
6. Make Sure You Sign The Form
This is a common mistake people make. They’re in such a rush to get the form sent off they forget the most important part. If you forget to sign it, the application will be invalidated and you’ll have to fill out the entire form again, so avoid this at all costs.
7. Double Check Everything Before Posting
We recommend that you just take a couple of minutes to go back over the form and make sure you haven’t forgotten anything or made any mistakes. Two or three minutes doing this can save you an hour or two later, not to mention days or weeks of waiting, if your application is rejected.
What To Avoid
OK, so the above list gives you all the best practices when filling out your DBS check application form by hand.
But what about things not to do? Here is a list of things to avoid at all costs:
1. Do Not Use Abbreviations
Avoid text speak or shorthand writing such as using ‘&’ for ‘and’ or ‘e.g.’ instead of ‘for example’. Some may be acceptable, but some won’t, so it’s best to avoid them all and write out the word(s) as spoken.
2. Do Not Use Coloured Ink
As mentioned above we recommend using black ink, but it’s worth repeating as you will potentially get your application rejected if you use even common colours such as blue or grey.
3. Do Not Use Correction Fluid (e.g. Tipp-ex)
If you use Tipp-ex just once on the application, it’s likely to be rejected. If you’re in the habit of making little mistakes when writing, a good tip is to write out your answers on a separate piece of paper first, then copy them over as written.
4. Do Not Include Nicknames Or Shortened Names
If you’ve been commonly referred to as PJ or Jimmy or Kathy, it can sometimes seem natural to write this as your name on a form. But the DBS check application form is an official form, and as such you need to write your name as it appears on official documents such as your birth certificate.
5. Do Not Stray Outside Of The Boxes
Any writing you put outside of the official boxes will be ignored. If you have important extra information that you can’t fit inside the provided box, you can request or print off a continuation sheet for additional information.
Best Option – Apply Online To Avoid Mistakes
The best way to avoid mistakes when filling in a DBS check application form is to opt for the online option instead of filling it out by hand on paper.
You can do that right here on www.dbschecks.org.uk
Our online application form will prompt you to fill in all the correct information and will help you to avoid common mistakes. It will also send your form instantly to the correct department, reducing the time it takes to receive your certificate.
For more information contact us today at info@dbschecks.org.uk
