Here at Online DBS Checks, we are proud to help applicants across the UK complete a DBS application whenever required.
Previously known as CRB checks, DBS checks tend to consist of a simple application process, only requiring you to follow the steps correctly and provide the relevant documents. In that case, the suitable criminal record check (and a barred list check where applicable) will be promptly completed, and a DBS certificate will be sent to you in quick succession.
However, sometimes issues occur that lead to your DBS application being withdrawn, either at the request of the hiring organisation or yourself. To make these situations more straightforward for all parties, the DBS updated their withdrawal policy in May 2021. If you’re curious about what these changes entail, continue reading to learn about the new DBS processes, including how to cancel DBS.
Why Has My DBS Application Been Withdrawn?
As previously mentioned, a DBS withdrawal policy update came into place on 31st May 2021. This added several new points, focusing on allowing the Disclosure and Barring Service to withdraw an application if there are inaccuracies in an applicant's personal information.
Overall, the DBS have permission to withdraw your application if they notice inaccuracies or false information in any of the following areas:
- The level of check you’ve applied for - An example would be requesting an Enhanced DBS check when you don’t meet the requirements.
- Your workforce type - You need to correctly state whether you’ll be working with children, adults, a mixture of the two or neither.
- The position applied for - Incorrectly describing your role's job title and parameters could result in a withdrawal.
- Regulated Activity - If the applicant thinks their role will involve working with children or adults, certain activities are deemed Regulated Activity. They need to be noted as such in the application.
- Whether the applicant is a volunteer.
- If the applicant will be working at their own address.
- The applicant’s current and previous names, current address and address history from the last five years.
What If My Circumstances Change After Submitting My DBS Application?
If this information changes after submitting your online application, the DBS will consider this a change of circumstances instead of a mistake.
Therefore, as long as you supply the new information as soon as possible, the Disclosure and Barring Service will add your updated information rather than automatically withdrawing your application.
Can I Cancel a DBS Application?
Numerous reasons may lead you to consider withdrawing a DBS check application - examples could include:
- If you’re a candidate that applied for a Basic DBS check as part of a job application process but no longer need it as you’re not going to accept the role.
- If you’re involved in the hiring process for a company, and a job applicant you had previously ordered a Standard DBS check for has been removed from the hiring process.
Read on to get more information on how to cancel a DBS application.
How to Withdraw a DBS Application
If you’ve confirmed your decision to withdraw a DBS application or cancel DBS application, you must do so before the DBS certificate in question enters the printing stage. If you make this deadline, a few options are available to you.
How to cancel DBS application?
Depending on your particular circumstances, it may be best to try one of the following:
- Email the DBS withdrawal team using the address listed on the DBS website.
- Send written notification to the DBS withdrawals team, whose office is based in Liverpool, UK.
- Get in contact with the local police force involved in your DBS application.
When the Disclosure and Barring Service have heard from you following the completion of one of the steps above, they will send you a form to confirm that the withdrawal is genuine. If you have any queries about this process on how to cancel DBS application, get in contact with Online DBS Checks, and a member of our team would be happy to help.
Is Requesting a DBS Check Withdrawal Worth It?
If a candidate has left the hiring process, you, as an employer, are legally obliged to withdraw the application or cancel DBS application, as the private information included is no longer relevant to you.
However, if you’re an individual considering withdrawing your application form, it’s probably not worth it. The DBS can’t give refunds when an application is withdrawn, so taking this step would just be a waste of your time and money.
FAQS
Can you cancel a DBS check?
Yes, you can cancel DBS applications, but timing matters. If you've just submitted your application and realise you made a mistake or no longer need it, contact whoever processed it immediately.
Once the DBS has started processing your application, to cancel DBS becomes much harder. Your best bet is always to get in touch as soon as you realise there's an issue - don't wait around hoping it'll sort itself out.
How do I cancel my DBS subscription?
Once you cancel DBS or withdraw your application, the update service fee will be refunded and you will automatically cancel DBS subscription. Fees are refunded within 31 days of making the transaction.
Do I get a refund if I cancel DBS?
Unfortunately, once you've made payment for the DBS, the fee cannot be refunded.
