Getting a DBS check is a standard part of many job applications, especially for people working in healthcare or with children. There are many reasons why an applicant, or employer, might want to withdraw a DBS application which is already underway. Perhaps the most common reason is that the applicant changes their mind about taking a position after an offer has been made because their circumstances have changed, or because they have had a better offer elsewhere. When this happens, employers lose the right to access any background information about that person, as they will no longer be their employer. If that happens, then the only option is to get in touch with the DBS and formally withdraw the application.
Cancelling a DBS Application
If an employer is told by a candidate that they won’t be taking up a position shortly after the offer, the chances are that their DBS check is still at the early stages of processing at the DBS. If you notify the DBS that you wish to withdraw an application before it gets to the stage of printing the certificate, then this can be easily done. However, this also means you will probably lose the money you have paid for the DBS check too. Make your withdrawal requests by letter or email, and the DBS can give advice on how to do this. Email is the preferred option when you want your DBS check stopped quickly, as there are obvious delays associated with sending forms through the post.
Practicalities of Withdrawing a DBS Application
When you contact the DBS to tell them that you wish to withdraw an application, they will need a few key pieces of information in order to identify the form and make sure that the person requesting the withdrawal is entitled to do so. It is very important to take care to supply the correct information as this could lead to delay.
If you are the applicant, you will have to give the DBS your full name as it was written on the application, the reference number you got when submitting it, your full address including postcode, and the date on which your application was made.
If you are an employer who is trying to withdraw an application than you will also have to give the applicant’s name, reference number and date of application, and your countersignatory number. If you don’t give enough information, the DBS will get back you to ask for any pieces of data you may have missed.
Withdrawals Through the Police
The other option for withdrawing a DBS application which is already processing is to contact the local Police, who can then liaise with the DBS for you. This will all take a bit longer though, as all the police can do is ask the DBS to send out a form to either the applicant or the registered body to request the application be withdrawn. The application remains suspended until they hear back from the applicant or employer.
