DBS checks for CQC registration

Page last updated: 13 March 2024
Categories
Organisations we regulate

If you are applying to be a registered partner, registered manager or individual provider you must get a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before you submit your application.

We will return your application if you do not have this.

Why DBS checks are required

For anyone applying to be either

  • individual provider
  • registered partner
  • registered manager

the DBS check forms part of the information that must be provided with the application. We will consider any criminal convictions or other disclosures in your DBS check. These could have a bearing on the assessment of both your suitability and good character.

The DBS check that supports your application must be no more than 12 months old when you apply for registration. We will return your application if your DBS is out of date.

Which type of DBS you need

You must have an enhanced DBS check with appropriate barred list information to support your application.

An enhanced DBS check shows convictions, legal warnings, reprimands or cautions you have received. Also, the police may disclose other intelligence or information they might have about you, whether or not it has resulted in a conviction or caution.

Barred list information

The barring information relevant to your application depends on the type of service.

The DBS holds two barred lists, one for people barred from working with children, the other for people barred from working with adults. People may appear on one list or on both.

The DBS check that supports your application must be either be an:

  • enhanced check with barred list (child). Apply for this if your service is for people under 18 years old only.
  • enhanced check with barred list (adult). Apply for this if your service is for people aged 18 and over only.
  • enhanced check with a barred list (child and adult). Apply for this if your service is for people of all ages.

If you are not a registered healthcare professional

You will need to apply for a CQC countersigned enhanced DBS check (CQC-CE-DBS). This means CQC authorises extra checks to be carried out as part of the DBS process to confirm your identity.

It can take up to 60 working days to receive your DBS certificate. Until you have it, you will not be able to submit your application.

Apply for a CQC-CE-DBS

If you are a registered healthcare professional

You still need to have an enhanced DBS check with barring information to support your application. But if you are registered with any of these professional bodies, you do not need to apply for a CQC-CE-DBS:

This is because registration with these professional bodies incorporates checks on your identity and professional standing.

As part of your application, you must:

  • Send us your original, enhanced DBS certificate with barred information. This must be the paper version and not a copy. Your DBS check must be no more than 12 months old.
  • Tell us your registration number with your professional body. If you are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, tell us your profession as well.
  • Use your current name. Your DBS check must also list any previous and legal names, including the name you used to register with your professional body.

Send your supporting documents by post to:

CQC National Customer Service Centre
Citygate
Gallowgate
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 4PA

Once we have processed your application, we will return your documents by registered post.