Criminal Record Bureau Checks

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Volunteering Ashford is a UK umbrella body registered to carry out full Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) disclosure checks.

We work with clients from the voluntary, community and commercial sectors offering a cost effective service that takes the hassle out of applying for a disclosure.

What is the CRB Disclosure Service?

The CRB, an Executive Agency of the Home Office, provides a service that enables companies and organisations to gain access to criminal record information via the Disclosure process.

The CRB Disclosure Service uses records held by the police, the Department of Health (DH) and the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) to make thorough checks on all staff or volunteers working or applying to work with children and vulnerable adults or other relevant groups.

Why is a Disclosure required?

A Disclosure provides information so that you can safeguard vulnerable adults and children.

Checks are not limited to social care; members of the legal, financial or accountancy professions, or anyone who handles sensitive information, may also require CRB checks.

Our Service

We provide two types of Disclosure: Standard and Enhanced. Our CRB Team are able to advise you on which type is best suited to your needs.

We are also able to provide PoVAFirst checks for situations where staffing levels require employees to work immediately. Again, our CRB Team are able to discuss your requirements with you.

We comply with the CRB Code of Practice and make sure that information about your candidates is handled securely and with confidentiality.

To see if your job/volunteer role requires a CRB check, you can find out details at the CRB website.

ESSENTIAL PAPERWORK

All organisations wishing to use VA's CRB service must sign and return an agreement stating that they comply with the CRB’s code of practice.

It is also essential that you have appropriate policies and procedures in place for dealing with the results of disclosure checks. Applicants should be able to request a copy of your policy detailing how they will be treated if they have a conviction. Your organisation will need to produce and implement the following policies:

A policy on the secure storage, use, handing and retention of CRB disclosures.

A policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders.

CRB Service Charges

Volunteer Standard Disclosure - £10

Volunteer Enhanced Disclosure - £10

Member of staff Standard Disclosure - £46

Member of staff Enhanced Disclosure - £50

Please call 01233 665535 or email deputy.manager@volunteering-ashford.org for further information.

BECOMING A NOMINATED IDENTITY CHECKER

If your organisation wishes to conduct in-house identity checks, a nominated person will need to attend a two-hour CRB Identity Checker training Course at Volunteering Ashford. Charges for this course are listed below:

Training - £20 per person

Please contact 01233 665535 or email deputy.manager@volunteering-ashford.org for course dates and further details.