At Volunteer Centre Sutton, we work with a wide range of organisations that support children, young people, older adults and other members of the community. Some volunteer roles involve working closely with people who may be vulnerable, so it's important that appropriate safeguarding measures are in place. One of these measures is a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. A DBS check helps organisations make informed and safer recruitment decisions by providing relevant information about an individual's criminal record and, where appropriate, whether they are barred from working with vulnerable groups.

Not every volunteering opportunity requires a DBS check. Whether one is needed depends on the responsibilities of the role and who you will be supporting. If your chosen role is eligible for a DBS check, the organisation you are applying to volunteer with will explain what type of check is required and support you through the process. Having a DBS check shouldn't be seen as a barrier to volunteering—it's simply one of the ways we help create safe, welcoming environments for volunteers and the people they support. In many cases, a clear DBS certificate is issued quickly, and if any information is disclosed, it is always considered fairly, sensitively and in confidence.

How Does a DBS Check Work?

If your volunteer role requires a DBS check, don't worry. The organisation you want to volunteer with will help guide you through the process. Here's what to expect:

1. They'll let you know if you need a DBS check. Not all volunteer roles require one, so they'll explain if it's needed for your chosen opportunity. It should also be mentioned on the role description.
2. Complete the application. You'll be asked to fill in a DBS application form with some basic personal information.
3. Provide proof of your identity. You'll need to show original identity documents, such as a passport, driving licence or utility bill. They'll let you know which documents you can use.
4. Your application is submitted. Once they've checked your documents, your application is sent securely to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
5. The DBS carries out the checks. They review the relevant information and, if applicable, check the appropriate barred lists for the role.
6. You receive your DBS certificate. Your certificate is sent directly to your home address. Depending on the organisation's process, you may be asked to show the certificate before you start volunteering.