A DBS check (formerly known as a CRB check) is performed in order to ascertain whether or not a person has a record of criminal activity. An application form is submitted, along with evidence of identity and residence, and the information provided is checked by the Disclosure and Barring Service in conjunction with the police. The results are then disclosed on a certificate that can be shown as proof that the checks have taken place.
As an organisation using the Disclosure and Barring Service to assess applicants' suitability for positions of trust, The University of Kent complies fully with the DBS Code of Practice and undertakes to treat all applicants for positions fairly. It undertakes not to discriminate unfairly against any subject of a Disclosure on the basis of conviction or other information revealed.
Please see our criminal convictions disclosure admissions policy statement (pdf).
Do I need a DBS disclosure?
You may be asked to apply for a DBS check when you apply to study or work at the University, or you may be asked during the course of your time with us.
If you have been asked to apply for a DBS check prior to registration, it is usually because your programme of study involves registration with a professional body that requires a DBS check or because it is one of the entry criteria for your chosen programme of study.
If you are asked to apply for a DBS check during the course of your studies, it is likely that you are going to be working in an environment where there are children and/or undertaking activities which, if any adult requires them, lead to that adult being considered vulnerable at that particular time. This is usually because you are taking part in a module, placement, or other University activity for which a DBS check is required.
How to apply
You will only need to complete a DBS check if specifically asked to do so by the organiser of the activity in which you intend to take part. This could be the placement co-ordinator for your chosen programme of study, or at the school or hospital (for example) at which you are going to be spending time. Please contact your department's nominated DBS contact if you are unsure.
Once you have confirmed that you need to apply, you will need to complete a DBS data release agreement and an online application via our external provider First Advantage Online Disclosures. You can obtain a Data Release Agreement and guidance notes from your department's nominated DBS contact. You will also receive an email explaining what you need to do. Please read all instructions very carefully before completing the application and use the online help if required.
Useful documents:
Payment
As an organisation using the Disclosure and Barring Service to assess applicants' suitability for positions of trust, the University of Kent complies fully with the DBS Code of Practice and undertakes to treat all applicants for positions fairly.
If you have been asked to pay for your DBS application, you will be requested to do so by First Advantage Online Disclosures once your identification documents and application have been verified. The current charge for an enhanced check is £38.00, plus First Advantage’s administration fee. If you are unsure whether you need to pay for your application, please check with your department's nominated DBS contact.
Student Ambassadors
If you are a Student Ambassador, and require a DBS disclosure for this role, please contact the Partnership Development Office by emailing outreach@kent.ac.uk.
Useful links
- DBS website
- Documents required for a DBS check
- The University of Kent Admissions Policy
- Lost or out of date driving licence
- Lost or expired passport
- DBS information regarding overseas applicants
All DBS FAQs
Please see our full list of DBS related FAQs