Disclosure and Barring Service Contact Number

Calls to this number cost 7p / minute plus your network operator’s access charge.

Opening Hours

Monday-Sunday: 08:00-18:00

Previously known as the Criminal Records Bureau (CRDB), the DBS, or the Disclosure and Barring service are used for checking someone’s criminal record if they are applying for a new job in healthcare or working with children. DBS checks are also needed when applying to foster or adopt a child. Only employers and licensing bodies can request a DBS Check, applicants can’t do a criminal records check on themselves.

The DBS Helpline

If you have any questions or queries, the quickest way to contact the DBS is by calling DBS customer services on 0844 579 1497.

If you are calling from Wales, you will need to call 0844 579 1497.

If calling from abroad, you can call +44 844 579 1497.

The DBS customer service helpline is available Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm. You can also call on Saturdays between 10am and 5pm.

Alternatively, you can send an email to [email protected]

Be sure to include your full name, address, telephone number and any DBS reference numbers.

If for any reason you can’t call the DBS contact number or send an email, you can write to the DBS at their UK postal address

DBS Customer ServicesPO Box 3961

Royal Wootton Bassett

SN4 4HF

Complaints

If you have a complaint or a dispute, you can contact the DBS complaints line on 0844 579 1497.

If calling from abroad, you can call +44 844 579 1497.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a DBS check?

Applicants can’t obtain a check themselves. The employer will need to get an application form from the DBS and give it to the applicant to fill in. The employer then sends the form off and the DBS will then send the certificate to the applicant.

How long is a DBS check valid for?

A DBS check has no expiry date and any information included will be accurate up until the time of the check. The employer must then decide if and when a new check is needed.

How much does a DBS check cost?

This depends on the type of check. There are three in total.

  1. Standard – This costs £26 and checks for spent convictions, unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings.
  2. Enhanced – This costs £44 and includes the same as the standard check, as well as any additional information held by police that is relevant to the role being applied for.
  3. Enhanced with list checks – This costs £44 and is the same as the enhanced check but also includes a check of the DBS barred lists.

How long does it take to carry out a DBS check?

Again, this depends on the type of check. If all the details given for the check are correct, it generally takes around eight weeks.

Useful Information

  1. Checks for eligible volunteers are free of charge.
  2. Applicants must provide valid identification.
  3. Employers must register with the DBS if carrying out more than 100 checks per year.
  4. The DBS can’t provide replacements for lost or destroyed certificates.

Further information is available via the DBS page of the Gov.uk website.

How To Contact The DBS

View The Official GOV Site https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service

Official Address

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

34 Liverpool Rd

Liverpool

L69 3JD

United Kingdom

Opening Hours:

Phone: 0844 579 1497

Click here for a bigger map.