CRB (DBS) checks for Sound Sense members

(From 1 December 2012, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has taken over from the CRB. There are few real changes to the service and process at the moment, particularly as it affects enhanced level disclosures, so for now we're keeping to the old terminology. If someone asks you for a DBS check, that's the same as asking for a CRB check. Previously issued CRB enhanced disclosure certificates remain valid.)

A Criminal Records Bureau disclosure enables your employers or those hiring your services to make an informed decision as to whether you are an appropriate person to be working with children and young people or with vulnerable adults. People are increasingly likely to ask you for your disclosure, often wanting to see one that is reasonably up to date.

You can't apply direct to Criminal Records Bureau for a disclosure of your criminal record: you have to apply through a counter-signatory service which will verify your identity papers. The good news is that we can arrange the enhanced disclosure you need at a very competitive price if you are a Sound Sense member.

Individuals
If you want a disclosure to cover yourself, ask us for a disclosure form. You simply complete this (we'll also send you easy to understand guidance notes) and send it back to us with appropriate proof of identity and your cheque. We will get the paperwork processed, countersigned and sent to the Criminal Records Bureau who will do any searches necessary. We will return your identity documents to you by registered post - all part of the service. Once completed, the CRB will send one copy of the disclosure directly to you and one copy to us (we'll store our copy securely for six months, then destroy it).

Organisations
Applications must be completed by the individual that the disclosure is for. An organisation can’t complete a disclosure application on behalf of someone else, although an organisation can request and return a number of applications in one batch. The disclosures will then be sent to the individuals directly, not to the organisation.

Level of disclosure
We are only offering enhanced level disclosures: these are best for work that involves the high levels of contact with children, young people or vulnerable adults that most community musicians will have.

Fees
The CRB fee (from 6 April 2011) is £44; and our processing fee is a modest £15.

Processing time
The estimated processing time for each disclosure is approximately six weeks. There is no possibility of hurrying a check up!

We offer this service only to Sound Sense members.