Your organisation 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 Being vulnerable means being at risk of harm, or that you need special care because of your age or disability. adults and children.
Mencap is a leading social care 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 Organisations are groups like companies and businesses. .
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.
Please note that you cannot apply for an Enhanced or Standard DBS if you are:
- self employed
- a sole trader
- wanting to carry out a DBS for someone you're employing to provide services for yourself, a family member or friend
- the Director or company owner, unless you have a co-owner/director to apply for you (they can't be a family member/relative or live at the same address as you).
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:
- Download our DBS checks terms and conditions PDF
- Applicants can check the progress of their application here
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.
Please visit their website for more information.
How can I pay for my application?
You have the option of paying for your DBS applications:
- online via SagePay
- by cheque
- by BACS
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!