With DBS checks an essential part of ensuring children's safety in education, we dive into the latest changes to ID checking guidance so that you can prepare for the coming updates.
New DBS checking guidelines came into effect from 22 April 2025, aiming to simplify ID checking guidance for applicants while maintaining a high level of protection against document fraud.
To allow schools and trusts time to adapt to the new technical changes, the previous ID checking guidelines can still be used until 1 November 2025.
Here's what's changing in the latest guidance.
Unified verification routes
The new guidelines streamline processes for non-UK nationals by removing the separate pathway previously required for verifying ID. Now, all applicants will be required to follow the same three-route process designed to verify identity consistently.
Removal of address documentation requirements
Where the previous guidance required applicants to provide documentation with their current address, the updated guidance removes this, allowing greater flexibility for candidates moving between permanent addresses.
An expanded range of acceptable documents
The list of acceptable documents has been broadened for specific categories:
- Group 1: Applicants can now submit an eVisa, Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), and Application Registration Card (ARC).
- Group 2b: Additional documents like HMRC self-assessment or tax demand letters and various European or Global Health Insurance Cards (EHIC/GHIC) have been introduced, offering more flexibility for applicants.
Enhanced guidance on document verification
To promote consistency and accuracy across verification and identity checks, clear instructions are now provided to help those checking documents through the process.
Document retention
As part of the updated process, the DBS will ask for records of documents checked as part of the ID verification process. These documents will need to be kept for a minimum of two years. Proof of a right to work still requires retention of the duration of the employment plus two years.
Adapting to changes during the transitional period
Schools and trusts using the DBS service to carry out identity checks have until 1 November 2025 to transition over to the updated guidelines, so will need to ensure they have the necessary processes in place to comply with the new checking guidance. A full overview of the revised ID checking guidelines along with illustrative examples can be found on the government website.
If you’re looking for further support on how to navigate the new guidance, our Safer Recruitment & DBS team is filled with enthusiastic specialists that are dedicated to ensuring schools understand the updated guidance and are ready to make the switch.
If you’re looking for bespoke advice on what these updated ID checks will mean for your School or Trust, or would like to learn more about how our Safer Recruitment team could help, please talk to us.
