Policy, procedure, fact sheets, templates & models regrading the full Safer Recruitment process can be found on our Safeguarding Guidance and Resources webpage.
DBS Update Service Guidance - Updated 2026
The DBS Update Service have updated their guidelines to clarify what is required for a DBS certificate to be transferable with other organisations:
- Updated DBS Update Service guidance now available - GOV.UK
- DBS Update Service: employer guide - GOV.UK
- DBS Update Service: applicant guide - GOV.UK
Why some people subscribe to the DBS Update Service
Subscribing to the DBS Update Service allows you to keep your DBS certificate up to date electronically, rather than completing a full new Enhanced DBS application every 3 years for the same role.
You still need to complete a Confidential Declaration every 3 years.
How does the DBS Update Service work?
If an individual has subscribed to the DBS Update Service, the Chelmsford DST can carry out a free, instant online Status Check to find out whether the information on the paper DBS certificate is still current.
The Diocese of Chelmsford expects that individuals subscribed to the Update Service still submit a Confidential Declaration to their PSO/Lead Recruiter before each online Status Check.
Is there an additional cost?
Paid workers must pay a yearly subscription fee of £16 to the DBS if they choose to subscribe. This is an individual decision - the Chelmsford DST cannot cover this cost.
There is no charge for unpaid volunteers.
How do I subscribe to the DBS Update Service?
Subscription is NOT automatic on receipt of a DBS certificate. You can subscribe if you are in the process of obtaining an Enhanced DBS check OR within 30 days of your certificate being issued.
The Chelmsford DST cannot do this on your behalf.
DBS Update Service - guide for applicants (gov.uk)
How to renew your DBS Update Service subscription
You can renew either when you first register (by choosing automatic renewal) or up to 30 days before your current subscription ends - but not on the last day. If you do not renew before it expires, you will need to apply for a new Enhanced DBS check.
The Chelmsford DST does NOT send renewal reminders. For support contact DBS Customer Services by email at customerservices@dbs.gov.uk or call 0300 0200 190.
Requesting an online Status Check
PSOs can request a free instant online Status Check for an individual subscribed to the DBS Update Service IF the workforce and barred list(s) on the original DBS certificate exactly match what is required for the role they are now applying for.
Examples of how employers can legally use the Update Service - gov.uk
The PSO must still see the applicant's original paper certificate in person to verify its legitimacy and check for any offences listed - an online Status Check only shows if there is NEW information.
To request a Status Check, email the Chelmsford DST (safeguarding@chelmsford.anglican.org) with the following details:
- Applicant's first name
- Applicant's current surname (as shown on their DBS certificate)
- Applicant's date of birth
- Applicant's DBS Certificate Number (as shown on the paper certificate)
- Workforce listed on the paper certificate (Child / Adult / Child and Adult)
- Barred list(s) checked (Children's Barred List / Adults Barred List)
- Whether the certificate was issued for a paid worker or volunteer
- The PCC-approved church role the applicant is applying for
- Workforce required for this role
- Barred list(s) required for this role
- Parish name
- Have you viewed the original paper DBS certificate in person? (copies or video viewing are not permitted)
- Have you checked the applicant's photo ID to confirm their identity?
- Do you have the applicant's consent for the Chelmsford DST to conduct an online Status Check?
The DST will email the Status Check results to you for your parish's Safer Recruitment records.