Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to state the need for a CRB Disclosure when I advertise a post?
Yes. The employer needs to ensure that all application forms for positions where Disclosures will be requested contain a statement that a Disclosure will be requested in the event of a successful application.
There should also be a statement in all application forms or accompanying material to the effect that a criminal record will not necessarily be a bar to obtaining a position, in order to reassure applicants that Disclosure information will not be used unfairly.
Can I apply for a Disclosure on myself?
No, the current legislation does not permit the self-employed or individuals to apply for Disclosure on themselves.
Can I apply for a free of charge Disclosure if the applicant is a volunteer?
Yes as long as you adhere to the definition of ‘volunteer' that is contained in The Police Act 1997 (Criminal Records) Regulations 2002. This defines a ‘volunteer' as 'a person engaged in an activity, which involves spending time, unpaid (except for travel and other approved out-of-pocket expenses), doing something which aims to benefit some third party other than or in addition to a close relative' .
Some people can be referred to as ‘volunteers', but do not actually meet the CRB's criteria to get a free check because they may receive, or expect to receive, a payment or benefit, such as remuneration or a credit towards a qualification.
What is the lower age limit for applying for Disclosure?
10.
How do I fill in the application form?
Use black ink throughout and write clearly in BLOCK CAPITALS only. Use only one letter or number for each box. Leave an empty box between words but not between postcodes or telephone numbers.
Which parts of the form do I need to fill in?
As recruiter you should complete section X and, we suggest, section B. You should not complete section Y. You must see original documentation to support section X. Photocopies of these documents must be sent to us with the application.
Applicants need to complete sections A, possibly B,C, D (if applicable), G and H.
Some fields are mandatory and therefore must be completed. Failure to do so will result in the application form being rejected and returned.
CRB Do's and Dont's page
What identification documents do I need to see?
You must only accept valid original documentation. You must not accept photocopies. You should where possible, ask for photographic identity (e.g. passport, new style driving licence, etc. and for this to be compared against the applicant's likeness). All documents must be in the applicant's current name as recorded in Section A. One document must confirm the applicant's date of birth as recorded in Section A. You must see at least one document to confirm the applicant's current address as recorded in Section A. (Only place a cross (x) in Section X15 if you have seen two documents.)
How many identification documents do I need to see?
The CRB has produced guidance on the type and range of identity documents that must be used by the approved person to validate the applicant's identity. These documents are divided into two groups. The number of documents from each group the approved person needs to see is set out in the CRB document;
CRB ID Checking process
When and how do I pay?
A cheque for the full amount must be sent with the completed form made payable to Supply & Demand Recruitment Ltd. Forms will not be sent to the CRB without payment as we are charged as soon as they are received by the CRB.
What happens if I make a mistake when completing the form?
Cross out any errors on the form and amend the correction to the right of the error. If there is no space to write next to a particular piece of information, please write as close to the text as possible or use a continuation sheet (available to registered users) to clearly record the correct information.
As an Umbrella Body we must ensure that those for whom we process Disclosure applications observe the Criminal Records Bureau Code of Practice by completing the forms accurately and within CRB guidelines. An additional administration cost of £7.00 + VAT per application will be charged each time any form has to be returned.
How long does it take for the Disclosure to come back from the CRB?
The CRB aims to process 90% of Standard checks in 10 days and 90% of Enhanced checks in 4 weeks. Complete and accurate applications will necessarily take a shorter amount of time than incorrect or incomplete ones which will be returned to you (and an additional administration cost incurred).
What do I do if a Disclosure comes back showing criminal convictions?
Particular attention must be paid to the guidance on the fair use of information in respect of those whose Disclosures reveal a conviction or similar matter.
The NACRO Resettlement Plus Helpline 020 7840 6464 can provide you with information and advice about information included on a Disclosure: what it means and its relevance to a particular job.
Supply and Demand Recruitment does not take any responsibility for the resulting recruitment decisions made by the employer.
