Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) checks

Two women smiling together on a beach, one woman is using a wheelchair whilst the other stands next to her, with the ocean in background

We are a Registered Body which provides an umbrella service to allow organisations to apply for Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) for their employees across England and Wales.

A group of people in smart working clothes

Your An organisation are a group of people who work together. can have the peace of mind that your staff are safe and suitable to work with vulnerable adults and children.

A man giving a man in a wheelchair a cup of tea.

Mencap is a leading Social care means the services that give care and support to people who need it. provider and has been processing DBS checks in England and Wales since they were introduced in 2002. (Scotland and Northern Ireland have different checks.)

More than 10,000 DBS checks in England and Wales are handled by us every year, including our own staff and volunteers, as well as other organisations.

We have a dedicated support team that deal with all queries by phone or email.

We also provide training upon request, helping you complete you application ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.

Our use of eBulk also means you can complete your applications online, hassle free, saving you time and money.

You won’t have to spend time or money registering with the DBS. There is also no joining fee to use this service.

If you have specific questions about having a DBS check, including information about what a regulated activity is, take a look at the Frequently Asked Questions section further down this page.

Alternatively, our DBS Team is available Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm on 01733 873 737 or dbs.enquiries@mencap.org.uk. We aim to process any queries within 2 business days.

Register with us

To register with us please complete our online registration form to let us know that you'd like a DBS check.

You will then receive an email with your log in details.

Man and woman couple with their arms around each other stood on a beach with their backs to the camera

Register with us

To register with us please complete our online registration form to let us know that you'd like a DBS check. You will then receive an email with your log in details.

Please note that you cannot apply for an Enhanced or Standard DBS if you are:

Depending on the services you offer, your licensing body or local council may be able to apply for a DBS on your behalf.

Useful resources

You may find it useful to take a look at the following links for further information:

Get in touch

Our DBS Team is available Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm on 01733 873 737 or dbs.enquiries@mencap.org.uk if you have any questions.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

We've compiled some useful answers to come of your frequently asked questions around DBS checks.

Click on the questions below to reveal the answers.

What kind of a DBS check should I apply for; Standard, Enhanced or Basic?

Use the DBS Eligibility Tool to see what kind of DBS check you should apply for.

How long does it take for an application to process?

Once an application has been countersigned and sent to the DBS for processing, the DBS average at 15 business days to process the application.

I applied for an application weeks ago and have not heard anything?

Some applications with the DBS can take longer for them to process.

After tracking an application and it has been held at any stage for more than 60 days, please contact the Mencap DBS on 01733 873 737 or dbs.enquiries@mencap.org.uk so they can investigate further.

What is the Update Service?

The Update Service is run by the Disclosure Barring Service. It allows applicants to keep their DBS certificates up to date and for employers to check a DBS certificate.

How can I pay for my application?

You have the option of paying for your DBS applications:

If you require our bank details you can request these by emailing dbs.enquiries@mencap.org.uk.

Hear from some of our customers

Hear from some of the people who have used our DBS Service.

Can I just say how professional, efficient and helpful I have found the DBS administration team. I have had a really speedy response to any queries I have had, and each person has given a very clear, helpful yet friendly response. I've been really impressed.

Thank you for a very efficient, prompt and speedy services. You made it all far too easy!

I'm still technically young and running my own business isn't always as fun as it sounds. When we contacted Mencap to get this DBS sorted it was a mega emergency and you may it a breeze and super quick. I'm close to saying it was almost enjoyable!

Register with us

To register with us please complete our online registration form to let us know that you'd like a DBS check.

You will then receive an email with your log in details.