Policies

Completing a DBS check – our guide for Ambassadors

What is a DBS check?

DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks are background checks into a person’s criminal record. They help ensure that people are safe to do certain activities, such as working with children, or caring for vulnerable adults.

These are standard procedure for roles such as yours and are all about ensuring the safety of everyone involved with Meningitis Research Foundation.

What type of check do I need to have as an Ambassador?

We do Basic DBS checks for all Ambassadors. This will be the standard level, but please note if anyone begins doing activities with increased risk, you may be asked to complete a more thorough check. We would discuss this with you if we felt it was needed in the future.

You can read more about all these types and the process here. You will not need to pay for your check.

How do I get a DBS check?

  1. Return your signed volunteer agreement. Once we receive it, we’ll add your details to uCheck, our secure platform for DBS checks.
  2. Look out for an invitation from uCheck. You’ll receive an email asking you to accept and complete the check. Please check your junk folder if you don’t see it.
  3. Complete the online form. Fill in the required personal information for the check.
  4. Show us your ID. You’ll need to provide two forms of identification. Common examples include a driving license and a passport, but a full list of acceptable IDs is provided below. You can do this via email (we’ll delete the email immediately afterward), over Zoom/Teams, or in person.
  5. We’ll submit your check.
  6. Receive your certificate. A copy of your DBS certificate will be sent to you in the post.
  7. Send us a copy. Please send us a scan or photo of your certificate for your record.

DBS checks are valid for three years, or sooner if new information requires an earlier renewal.
Please note: If anything does come up on your DBS check, it won’t necessarily stop you from being an ambassador. We’ll consider each case individually.

If you’re already subscribed to the DBS Update Service, let us know.

Should you have any questions or concerns about your DBS check, do get in touch with us. As always, we are there to support you.

Types of ID documents

Document 1:

  • Current valid passport
  • Current Biometric Residence Permit (UK issued)
  • Current Driving License Photocard – Full or Provisional (UK, Isle of Man, Channel Islands issued)
  • Birth Certificate – Issued at birth
  • Adoption Certificate (UK and Channel Islands Issued)

Document 2:

  • Current Valid Passport
  • Current Biometric Residence Permit (UK issued)
  • Current Driving License Photocard – Full or Provisional (UK, Isle of Man, Channel Islands issued)
  • Birth Certificate – Issued at birth
  • Adoption Certificate (UK and Channel Islands Issued)
  • Non-UK Current Driving License Photocard – Full or Provisional
  • Current Driving License – Full or Provisional – Paper version if used before 1998
  • Birth Certificate – Issued after time of birth
  • Marriage/Civil Partnership Certificate
  • HM Forces ID Card (UK issued)
  • Firearms License
  • Immigration Document/Visa/Work Permit
  • Mortgage Statement (UK issued)
  • Bank or Building Society Statement (UK and Channel Islands issued)
  • Bank or Building Society Account Opening Confirmation Letter (UK issued)
  • Credit Card Statement (UK issued)
  • Financial Statement, e.g. Pension or Endowment (UK issued)
  • P45 or P60 statement (UK and Channel Islands issued)
  • Council Tax statement (UK and Channel Islands issued)
  • Letter of Sponsorship from Future Employment Provider
  • Utility Bill
  • Benefit Statement e.g. Child Benefit, Pension
  • Central or Local Government, Government Agency, or Local Council document giving entitlement
  • For example, these could be from the Department for Work and Pensions, the Employment Service or HMRC etc. Must have been issued within the UK or Channel Islands in the last 3 months.
  • EEA National ID Card
  • Cards carrying the PASS accreditation logo
  • Letter from Head Teacher or College Principle
  • Non-UK Bank or Building Society Statement
  • Irish Passport Card

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