CRB Direct

CRB Direct: DBS Check processing for businesses and individuals

CRB Direct is a trading style of Clear Check Ltd that operates through the website crbdirect.org.uk. The company presents itself as a Responsible Organisation officially approved by the UK government to process DBS Checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Its activity focuses on managing and processing criminal record check applications in England and Wales, with a service aimed at both employers and organisations and at individual applicants and people residing overseas.

Types of DBS Check offered

The service covers all three types of check available in the UK system:

• Basic DBS Check: a basic criminal record check, available to anyone.
• Standard DBS Check: a standard check, aimed at certain roles and regulated sectors.
• Enhanced DBS Check: an enhanced check, the most thorough type, intended for activities involving direct contact with vulnerable groups.

The company also mentions carrying out ACRO and Police Check checks, as well as verification services for international applicants.

Three-step application process

The site describes a structured procedure for completing the application:

• Step 1: the applicant completes the online form and makes the corresponding payment. The company reviews the application and contacts the applicant if additional information is needed.
• Step 2: the supporting documents are verified and uploaded, and are checked together with the initial application before being sent to the relevant government body.
• Step 3: the DBS Check certificate is received by post within 7 to 14 days.

For Basic DBS Checks, the DBS accepts digital identity checks carried out by a government-approved identity service provider (IDSP), provided they were completed within three months before the application. In the case of Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks, the process requires the employer to carry out the check and to have a corporate account.

Applicant profile

CRB Direct serves three main groups: businesses and organisations that need to check their employees or volunteers, individuals applying for their own certificate, and applicants residing outside the United Kingdom. The company states that prior registration is not required to start an application and that it offers SMS updates and digital results online.

Corporate identity and institutional backing

CRB Direct operates as a trading style of Clear Check Ltd, a company listed as a responsible organisation approved by the UK government to process DBS Checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service. The site includes a reference to government approval and links to www.gov.uk as a verification source. The company offers a telephone helpline and a contact form for enquiries related to the process.