What is Veremark's policy with regard to client responsibilities and actions when performing ID verification for Basic, Standard and Enhanced DBS checks?
1. Purpose
This policy outlines the responsibilities of Veremark’s clients in verifying the identities of applicants undergoing Basic, Standard or Enhanced DBS checks, in accordance with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) guidelines effective from 22 April 2025.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all clients of Veremark who request Basic Standard or Enhanced DBS checks for their applicants.
3. Client Responsibilities
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) requires that an applicant’s identity is verified before a Standard or Enhanced DBS check can be processed. Since the employer is initiating this process, they are legally and procedurally responsible for ensuring the applicant is who they say they are.
3.1 Identity Verification
Veremark will aim to use digital identity verification that meets the DBS’s digital identity verification standard wherever possible. When this cannot be undertaken, the client is responsible for ensuring the identity verification is completed as per the guidelines set out by the DBS:
- Verify Applicant Identity: Ensure that the identity of each applicant is verified before submitting a DBS application. This involves checking original identity documents as specified in the DBS guidelines.
- Follow the Three Route ID Checking Process: Adhere to the three-route identity checking process outlined by the DBS, ensuring that the combination of documents presented satisfies the requirements for the level of check being conducted.
3.2 Document Handling
- Original Documents: Inspect original documents; photocopies or scanned images are not acceptable unless using a certified digital process via the Digital IDv route.
- Document Authenticity: Check the authenticity of documents, ensuring they are genuine, valid, and belong to the applicant.
3.3 Restrictions on Identity Checkers
- Independence: Ensure that the person conducting the identity verification is not related to the applicant, does not live at the same address, and is not a personal friend.
3.4 Right to Work Checks
- Separate Requirement: Conduct a separate Right to Work check for each applicant, as this is a distinct requirement from the DBS identity verification process.
4. Veremark Responsibilities
Veremark will ensure are responsible for:
- Client staff Training: Veremark will ensure that clients involved in the identity verification process are adequately trained and familiar with the DBS identity checking guidelines.
- Policy Adherence: Veremark will regularly review and ensure adherence to the latest DBS guidelines to ensure ongoing compliance
- Record Keeping: Veremark will support the recording of the identity verification process, including details of documents checked and the outcome of the verification.
5. Support
For assistance or further information regarding identity verification procedures, clients can contact Veremark at support@veremark.com.
By following this policy, Veremark’s clients will contribute to the integrity and effectiveness of the DBS checking process, ensuring compliance with the latest standards and safeguarding practices.