The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) is tightening up the identity verification procedures that Registered Bodies (those organisations registered with the CRB to use its services) are required to carry out in respect of applicants before making an application for CRB clearance. The number of documents acceptable for ID verification has been vastly reduced to ensure that Registered Bodies require applicants to produce only documents that have been acquired though undergoing stringent identity verification with the document issuer, such as the Identity and Passport Service or the DVLA.
Why?
The Home Office commissioned the CRB to look at ways of enhancing the ID checking process to reduce abuse of the system and improve public protection. It is hoped that reducing the number of documents acceptable for ID verification will reduce people’s ability to use documents that are easily obtained or forged, and in particular make it more difficult for people to conceal previous criminal records by changing their name. Lists of valid identity documents will be available on the CRB website.
When?
The implementation date of the new process will be 28 May 2012, though there will be a phasing-in period of three months to allow Registered Bodies to bring existing processes into line with the new ones and train their staff involved in the checking process. By 31 August 2012, all ID checks should be carried out in line with the new Guidance.
Where?
Click the links below to see:
- the new Guidance entitled “Revised and enhanced identification checking guidelines, effective from 28 May 2012”
- Frequently asked questions on the new process
How?
The new process comprises 3 Routes and 2 Groups of valid identity documents for verifying an applicant’s identity.
Route One
If the applicant can produce a Group 1 document, then they must produce 3 documents (1 document from Group 1 and 2 further documents from Group 2, one of which must verify their current address).
If the applicant has satisfied this route then the document check is complete and the application for CRB clearance can be made. If the applicant cannot produce a Group 1 document then Route 2 must be followed.
Route Two
The applicant must produce 3 documents from Group 2 (comprising of 1 document from Group 2a and 2 further documents from Group 2a or 2b, one of which must verify their current address) AND satisfy an external ID validation check to establish their name and living history footprint.
If the applicant fails to satisfy the external ID check then they will need to attend a police station for fingerprinting in line with current procedure.
If the Registered Body has exhausted Route One and has endeavoured to access an external ID checking service, then Route Three may be considered.
Route Three
The applicant must produce a certified copy of a UK birth certificate AND 4 further documents (comprising 1 from Group 2a and 3 further documents from Group 2a or 2b, one of which must verify their current address).
If the applicant fails to produce the required documentation, then they will also need to attend a police station for fingerprinting.
If the Registered Body cannot establish an applicant’s identity in accordance with these guidelines then they should make W59 on the application form with a NO and recourse will be had to the fingerprints.
