DBS Checks Outsourcing Service (Umbrella Processing)
Safer recruitment made simple for organisations
If your organisation needs DBS checks but doesn’t want the admin burden, Special People can manage the process for you. We provide a supported application route and keep you updated from start to finish.
We submit DBS applications via our registered route with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), helping you stay compliant while saving staff time.
Who this service is for
- Care and support providers
- Charities and community groups
- Schools, clubs, and youth organisations
- Employers and organisations recruiting for eligible roles
- Organisations needing an outsourced DBS admin partner
What’s included in our DBS processing
- Application set-up and submission support
- ID checking guidance (so applications are completed correctly)
- Admin checks to reduce errors and delays
- Progress tracking and status updates
- Support for applicants and managers
- Secure handling of information (UK GDPR aware processes)
Important note: A DBS check is only available at the correct level for an eligible role.
Pricing (Total Price Payable)
All prices below are the total payable and include the official DBS fee (set by government) plus our processing/admin fee:
- Basic DBS: £47.00
- Standard DBS: £47.00
- Enhanced DBS (with/without Barred List(s)): £75.00
Volunteer roles
- Basic DBS: charged by DBS
- Standard/Enhanced (including Barred Lists): DBS does not charge eligible volunteers, but the submitting organisation may charge an admin fee.
- Our volunteer admin fee (Standard/Enhanced): £25.50
How it works
- Request a DBS check: send us the role details and the level required (Basic / Standard / Enhanced).
- Applicant completes details: we provide instructions and support to ensure accuracy.
- ID documents verified: we guide the applicant/organisation through the ID requirements.
- We submit and track: we keep you updated until completion.
- Certificate issued to the applicant: the applicant then shares it with the organisation as part of recruitment.
What DBS levels mean
- Basic: unspent convictions (can be used for any role/purpose)
- Standard: spent + unspent convictions (eligible roles only)
- Enhanced: Standard + relevant police information (eligible roles only)
- Enhanced with Barred List(s): Enhanced + children’s/adults’ barred list check (only where legally permitted)
FAQ
How long does a DBS check take?
Timescales vary depending on the level of check and police force processing. We submit promptly and track progress, but we cannot guarantee return dates.
Can we request Enhanced for any role?
No—Standard/Enhanced checks are only available for eligible roles.
Who receives the DBS certificate?
DBS issues the certificate to the applicant, who then shares it with the organisation.
Do you store DBS certificates?
We don’t receive the certificate from DBS. Organisations should handle certificate information securely and in line with data protection requirements.