We are now offering gold and silver childcare providers and tutors, advertising on our platform, the ability to apply for an Enhanced DBS check via our partner uCheck - a leading UK-based platform that provides pre-employment screening and background checks for employers and individuals.

uCheck is one the UK's largest umbrella body organisations registered with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) who act as an intermediary to process criminal record checks on behalf of other organisations and employers.

How do I get an Enhanced DBS check?

The childcare provider or tutor completes the simple application directly on the uCheck website.

You must undertake uCheck's Digital Identify verification check to support your application which usually requires you to have a biometric passport.

Who pays for the Enhanced DBS check?

The provider pays uCheck directly for the Enhanced DBS check, along with an additional fee for the Digital ID check at the time of making the application.

How much does the Enhanced DBS check cost?

The cost is currently £65.20 for the Enhanced DBS check plus an additional fee of £5.60 for the digital identity verification check - total cost £70.80.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once you have submitted your application and have passed the digital identity verification check, Childcare.co.uk are required to accept the application before it is formally approved by uCheck. Your application is then submitted to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) who undertake the checks via the Police and other authorities.

What happens if I don't pass the digital ID check?

If you do not pass the digital ID check, you will receive a refund from uCheck for the Enhanced DBS check cost.

How long does it take for the Enhanced DBS check?

The results are often available as quickly as 48 hours but it can sometimes take a little longer as it is reliant on the processing time of Police checks which are done by individual police forces and some are quicker than others. uCheck can provide a tracking link so you can track which stage your application is at.

How do I receive the results and certificate?

You will be sent a certificate by post directly from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). They say this usually takes between 5 and 14 days once all the checks are complete.

I need an Enhanced DBS check as part of my Ofsted registration application, can I use this?

No. If you are going through the Ofsted registration process, you will need to follow the Ofsted process which is uses Matrix Security Watchdog. Read more information

Can I get an Enhanced DBS check if I am not a premium member?

You need to be a silver or gold member to apply for an Enhanced DBS check via our platform, however if you are a free member and a premium parent member on our platform is requesting that you undertake a check prior to them using your service, the parent can click the 'Request a new DBS check' button on your Childcare.co.uk profile and you will receive instructions on how to complete a check in the My Messages section.

Ready to Apply for your Enhanced DBS check?

If you are a gold or silver childcare provider member, you can click below to start the process.

Apply for an Enhanced DBS Check