RESOURCES
(AND SIGNPOSTS FOR GETTING HELP)
DBS Checks
You must obtain a DBS check before you can go into schools.
DBS checks can take a few weeks to come back so please do this sooner rather than later.
We recommend that you apply for your DBS check during autumn term.
You can apply for a DBS check at the YUSU Helpdesk in James College.
You will need to take 3 forms of ID with you. The accepted forms of ID are detailed below.
When you receive your certificate you must bring it to a session so we can record it.
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Accepted forms of ID:
(Need 1 document from group 1 and 2 documents from group 1, 2a or 2b.)
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DBS Frequently Asked Questions
The FAQs below will give you an idea of the process of obtaining a DBS check. Please read the information provided and contact us with any questions that you might have.
What is a DBS check?
A DBS check is a record of an individual’s criminal record which is issued in the form of a certificate. All volunteers working for OpenMinds must obtain a criminal record check. When you have completed the DBS form and provided 3 pieces of ID, YUSU will send your form to the DBS for processing.
How long do DBS checks take?
A DBS check can take between 2-4 weeks after sending the form off. You will receive your certificate through the post to the current address you provide in your form.
Can I track my DBS check?
Yes, you can track your check by visiting https://secure.crbonline.gov.uk/enquiry/enquirySearch.do. You will need your form reference number. If your DBS check does not arrive after 4 weeks, you can request DBS to resend the certificate one more time by calling them on 0870 90 90 811.
What do I do when I receive my certificate?
You must present your certificate to the secretary of OpenMinds at a session before you start volunteering. Please keep your certificate safe as you will be required to bring it into the school on the date of your workshop, and if you lose it, you would have to go through the whole process again!
I already have a DBS, can I use this for OpenMinds?
Your DBS for OpenMinds, must be issued for the University of York, and must be for working with a child workforce. If your DBS doesn’t meet these requirements, then you will have to apply for another.
Can I use my DBS check for other volunteering?
Your check will be valid for most University of York and YUSU volunteering for up to 3 years as long as your roles are within the same workforce. Your DBS check for OpenMinds will be for working with children and young people only.
If you are likely to volunteer outside of the University, you may benefit from joining the DBS Update Service. The update service is free of charge for volunteers and allows a volunteer to take a DBS check from role to role, within the same workforce, where the same level and type of check is required. You will need to visit https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service and register as soon as you have your form reference number, or within 14 days of receiving your DBS certificate.
DBS Frequently Asked Questions
The FAQs below will give you an idea of the process of obtaining a DBS check. Please read the information provided and contact us with any questions that you might have.
What is a DBS check?
A DBS check is a record of an individual’s criminal record which is issued in the form of a certificate. All volunteers working for OpenMinds must obtain a criminal record check. When you have completed the DBS form and provided 3 pieces of ID, YUSU will send your form to the DBS for processing.
How long do DBS checks take?
A DBS check can take between 2-4 weeks after sending the form off. You will receive your certificate through the post to the current address you provide in your form.
Can I track my DBS check?
Yes, you can track your check by visiting https://secure.crbonline.gov.uk/enquiry/enquirySearch.do. You will need your form reference number. If your DBS check does not arrive after 4 weeks, you can request DBS to resend the certificate one more time by calling them on 0870 90 90 811.
What do I do when I receive my certificate?
You must present your certificate to the secretary of OpenMinds at a session before you start volunteering. Please keep your certificate safe as you will be required to bring it into the school on the date of your workshop, and if you lose it, you would have to go through the whole process again!
I already have a DBS, can I use this for OpenMinds?
Your DBS for OpenMinds, must be issued for the University of York, and must be for working with a child workforce. If your DBS doesn’t meet these requirements, then you will have to apply for another.
Can I use my DBS check for other volunteering?
Your check will be valid for most University of York and YUSU volunteering for up to 3 years as long as your roles are within the same workforce. Your DBS check for OpenMinds will be for working with children and young people only.
If you are likely to volunteer outside of the University, you may benefit from joining the DBS Update Service. The update service is free of charge for volunteers and allows a volunteer to take a DBS check from role to role, within the same workforce, where the same level and type of check is required. You will need to visit https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service and register as soon as you have your form reference number, or within 14 days of receiving your DBS certificate.