If you’re the sort of person who wants everything done instantly, then you’re not alone. Nobody likes being kept waiting. When it comes to DBS checks, there is no “fast track” option. This only applies to things like passports or driving licences. We don’t have a magic wand, but follow our insider tips for DBS checks to speed your application along as quickly as possible.
Get Your DBS Checks Documents in Order
As soon as you know that you need a DBS check, start getting things in order. Look out your passport, driving licence and other identity documents. You will also need utility bills and bank statements. Put them all together in one place. When your employer is ready to verify your identity, you can immediately comply with their request. You will have to take the originals of your documents, not photographs or photocopies.
Use Online Services
It sounds really obvious, but using the old pen and paper methods for getting checks done always makes things slower. Submit your information online, and it’s received instantly at the other end. Similarly, if the DBS has anything they need to clarify, they can email you for a quick response.
Use a Third Party
As well as using the standard DBS website to apply for your DBS, there are other ways of streamlining the process. Approved third party websites can help you
apply for your DBS check and also help with speeding things along a little. This is partly because they are experts in picking up little mistakes and errors which can slow down processing when checks arrive at the DBS. Also, many third party websites are approved to verify your identity documents. Depending on where you live, their checking service can be much quicker than arranging a special trip to your new employer with your documents. Third parties are also used to processing checks for people in many different situations. If your address history isn’t straightforward, or you have spent time abroad, their advice can be invaluable.
Proofread and Check Again
If you have a third party company helping you with your application, then they’ll take care of the proofreading and catching common mistakes. If not you’ll have to do it yourself. Look at the obvious – have you made any spelling mistakes, and are there any blank boxes which you should have filled in? A common error is to leave gaps in the address history. You need to give a full five years’ history. If you were out of the country for an extended period, then state this on the form. Include postcodes for all of your UK addresses.
When it comes to the section about previous names, this refers to both first names and surnames. It also means every name you’ve ever used, not just in the past five years. If, for example your name is Elizabeth Jane Smith and you use “Jane Smith” for professional purposes, this should be listed separately. If you have any questions at all about what you should write in the boxes, check before submitting the form.
