DBS
The new name for your CRB check is DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service). Instructions on how to apply for a DBS check may be downloaded below and here are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about DBS checks:
Why do I need a DBS check?
The Disclosure and Barring service (DBS) provides access to criminal records and other relevant information. It helps ensure greater protection for at risk members of our society, such as children and vulnerable adults, by helping us to make sure the right people are volunteering for our programmes.
The fact that all of our volunteers, including TACS demonstrators, are checked offers reassurance to both parents / guardians and schools and is part of the strict application process for potential TACS demonstrators.
What sort of things might be highlighted in a DBS check?
We ask you to undertake the enhanced level, as you will be working with children. This shows convictions, cautions, arrests and any other information which a senior police officer (or other relevant body, such as Social Services or the Department for Children, Schools and Families) deems to be relevant.
An arrest that did not result in a conviction or caution could show, depending on the judgement of the police. Speeding and parking offences are not shown. The DBS does not check whether an applicant is permitted to work within the UK.
Is the process confidential?
We take your privacy extremely seriously. The whole process is between you and the Foundation, at all times.
How far back does it go?
There is no time limit.
Will something I did 25 years ago stop me being a TACS demonstrator?
In general, safeguards and guidelines have been introduced to ensure that conviction information is not misused and that ex-offenders are not treated unfairly. Ex-offenders retain the protection afforded by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
We look at every case individually and treat all information confidentially. We understand that offences may have taken place a long time ago, perhaps during difficult personal circumstances, and will take this into account. If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact Joanne Schmidt in confidence (joanne.schmidt@dhl.com or call 0844 875 3031 Option 5).
Have you ever turned someone down to be a demonstrator?
Yes we have, after careful consideration. We have a duty of care to ensure all participants in the programme are appropriate adult volunteers.
Why do I need to renew my DBS?
We require all TACS demonstrators to renew their DBS checks every three years. It is good practice to ensure the safeguards the check affords, are in place and are part of the guidelines of the programmes. If you renew your DBS and convictions are disclosed, the Foundation will follow a process to review this information before your application is accepted. Please note that renewal of your DBS is not an automatic acceptance for you to continue to volunteer as a TACS demonstrator.
How do I renew my DBS?
The TACS Team will email you three months before your DBS expires with full details of how to apply. If you have not undertaken the check, you will receive a further email with a month’s notice. If you still do not initiate the check, we will regretfully have to remove you from the register of trained demonstrators.
For your information the date of your DBS check is on your TACS ID card, so you can easily see when it is due for renewal.
If you have not found the answer to your question here, please contact the TACS team (talking.tacs@dhl.com or 0844 875 3031 Option 5) and they will be able to help.
“I’m extremely proud of the major contribution from my team of demonstrators and the full support of my customer.”
Keith Briggs, Regional Operations Manager