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A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is an important part of many job applications in the UK, particularly in roles involving children or vulnerable adults. It provides employers with essential background information to help ensure safe recruitment practices. However, sometimes mistakes can happen. If you find an error in your DBS certificate, it’s crucial to take action straight away. Here’s a practical guide on what to do if your DBS check contains errors.

Identifying the Problem

First, carefully review your DBS certificate once it arrives. Common errors may include:

  • Incorrect name or spelling mistakes

  • Wrong date of birth

  • Inaccurate address history

  • Offences wrongly listed (or not removed as spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act)

  • Records that don’t belong to you due to identity mix-ups

Even small errors can cause delays in your employment process or negatively impact your chances of getting a job.

Step 1: Contact the DBS Immediately

If you notice any inaccuracies, your first step is to contact the DBS directly. You can reach them via the DBS helpline or visit their official website to report the mistake. It’s essential to do this within three months of the certificate being issued.

Be prepared to provide your application reference number, a description of the error, and any supporting documents if needed.

Step 2: Request a Certificate Dispute

The DBS has a formal dispute process for handling errors. You’ll need to request this by completing a Certificate Dispute form, which you can get by contacting DBS Customer Services. Your dispute will be reviewed, and if the error is confirmed, the DBS will issue a corrected certificate free of charge.

If the error relates to police-held information, the DBS may refer the matter back to the relevant police force for clarification. This can add some time to the process, but it ensures the accuracy of the corrected check.

Step 3: Inform Your Employer

If you’ve already shared your DBS certificate with an employer, be sure to inform them of the issue and explain that you’re in the process of disputing the result. This can help protect your job application or employment status while the matter is being resolved.

Step 4: Check Your Update Service (if applicable)

If you’re registered with the DBS Update Service, any corrections should also reflect on your record there once the certificate is reissued. This ensures consistency across all future checks using the service.

Final Thoughts

Mistakes on a DBS certificate can be frustrating, but they can be corrected by following the proper steps. Knowing what to do if your DBS check contains errors helps you take swift action and protect your reputation and career prospects. For smooth and secure checks, always use a trusted provider like Clear Check.