The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) have recently communicated that as part of their strategic objectives to drive efficiency and value for money, and to support adherence to HM Treasury guidelines around managing public money, they are taking steps to reduce the volume of paper used within delivery of their services.
Currently, upon completion of every Basic Check application, the DBS issue a paper letter to the applicant which informs them that their Basic Check application has been received and that, if they have requested a paper certificate, this will be sent separately in the post. The letter also explains how an applicant can view their certificate online, by creating an account on the DBS Online Account Portal.
Following extensive analysis, the DBS have found that few applicants create an account, and even less view their certificate via the portal compared to the volume of letters generated. The DBS have therefore taken the decision to cease automatic generation of this letter for all Basic Check applications where the applicant selects a paper certificate, from 7th February 2025.
Access to the online portal will still be available and, should an applicant not select a paper certificate, the letter will continue to be issued as it will be required for the applicant to access their certificate via the portal.
Applicants who request a paper certificate will still be able to access the online version and guidance on Gov.uk will be updated to provide information on how applicants can obtain an authorisation code without the letter.