Update regarding ID Verification for DBS
March 2021
IMPORTANT - Return to face-to-face Identity (ID) Document Verification for DBS Checks
In response to guidance outlined by the UK Government and the Welsh Government, ECB made the decision to limit access to Atlantic Data, the online DBS portal, to only primary and secondary users. These users have still been able to initiate and verify checks remotely throughout this time, but this decision did suspend the initiation and verification process for thousands of Club Safeguarding Officers.
ECB, in preparation to return to professional and recreational cricket, and looking closely at the UK Government’s road map out of full lockdown, have made the decision to offer the opportunity to return to face to face verifications and provide access to all our network of verifiers from April 12th, 2021. This is in line with the UK Government’s Step 2 road map out of lockdown which sees the easing of lockdown restrictions on gatherings, outdoor activities, and a return of formally organised, outdoor sport.
The latest guidance from the Welsh Government will also permit face to face verification when access is returned to all verifiers.
From the 12th April all Video ID verifications should cease in England and Wales and revert back to face-to-face verifications however it is important that all Government guidelines on social measures are adhered to.
ID Verification
Face-to-face ID document verification can take place from the 12th April, as long as the verifier and those requiring their ID to be verified observe all Government guidelines.
Above all, you must be able to operate consistently within guidance regarding health, social distancing, and hygiene.
Please remember that it is a verifier’s choice as to whether they feel comfortable to carry out face-to-face ID checks. They should not feel pressure to do so by anyone. If a verifier does not feel that they can carry out the face-to-face verification, then they should contact their County Cricket Board/First Class County.
Venue Considerations
Do not carry out the ID document verification in someone else’s home or invite anyone into your home to do so. All ID verifications to take place in an outdoor setting. Please consider the options that would work safely for you and those individuals whose documents you are seeking to verify.
Before Verification Considerations
Access the Atlantic Data system and initiate the check for the applicant.
Whilst setting up the verification meeting ensure the participant has completed the relevant information as required.
Remind the person/people attending of the documents they need to bring. This will reduce the need for a second contact.
ID verification for under-18s must be done with a parent/carer or other trusted adult present, who also follow respective Government guidelines.
Remind applicants not to attend if they feel unwell, have a temperature or cough or should be isolating as a person in their home is unwell.
During the Verification Meeting
Maintain a safe distance.
Wear disposable gloves to avoid direct handling of documents to be verified, where possible ask the applicant to hold them up close enough that you can view the necessary information.
Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds.
Use alcohol-based hand gel, if soap and water are not available.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze.
This process now supersedes the previous Video ID verification process.
If you require any further support regarding initiating and / or verifying DBS applications, please contact dbs@ecb.co.uk
Once again, we will reiterate, it is the verifiers choice to return to face-to-face verification and if you feel that this is not right at this time then that is okay. We thank you for your continued support as we prepare for the return of cricket.
