Please see the update below regarding the DBS Update Service.
This is an important change which impacts volunteers only. The process will remain the same for paid applicants.
What has happened?
The Disclosure and Barring Service has initiated a change in the process for updating certification for volunteers. This information was not communicated to us prior to its implementation.
The procedure required an individual (volunteer) to confirm annually to the ECB that they are continuing in their role which facilitates the automatic renewal of their DBS certificate. A customer would receive a separate notification from the Disclosure and Barring Service indicating to them that they are not required to take any action to update their certificate and their subscription will continue.
The Disclosure and Barring Service has now modified its user agreement, mandating that all individuals log into their update service account to renew their subscription on an annual basis. Should this not be actioned, their account will lapse, resulting in a failed check for the ECB, and the individual will be required to apply for a new DBS certificate as the DBS does not permit the reinstatement of Update Service subscriptions after lapsing.
What is the ECB Doing to minimise the impact of the change?
The ECB has been working with its supplier, Atlantic Data, to understand the implications of the recent changes and to establish processes that can effectively mitigate the associated risks.
We have implemented the following changes:
- All on-screen text and email communications will be updated by 20th January, to clearly inform applicants of the necessary steps to renew their DBS with the ECB and to renew their Subscription to the Update Service.
- Emails will be issued to all individuals who are due for renewal within the next 30 days, serving as an additional reminder of the required actions, including the new process.
- Communications will be shared with the network and wider game.
- We are in the process of recontacting all individuals who have lapsed since January 1st to assist them in submitting a new application where applicable, thereby reducing the number of applications that need to be initiated locally.
What does an individual need to do?
- Action the communication from the ECB once received 30 days prior to renewal:
(Give consent and confirm their Role/Club/Contact details).
Email from dbs@ecb.disclosures.co.uk
Titled: ECB DBS Expiry – Important Message – Action required
- Action the communication from the DBS Update service received 30 days prior to renewal: (log in and renew subscription)
Email from donotreply@dbs.gov.uk
Titled: FYI: Action required to renew your Update Service subscription
