DBS Fee Changes Effective December 2024: Key Details and New Pricing

"Image Credit: Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)"

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has announced updates to the fees for its checks and Update Service, effective Monday, 2nd December 2024. These changes, aimed at covering increased operational costs, will impact all customers using the DBS safeguarding services.

Updated Fee Structure

The new fees are as follows:

Update Service: £16 per year

Basic DBS Check: £21.50

Standard DBS Check: £21.50

Enhanced DBS Check: £49.50

Enhanced DBS Check with Barred List(s): £49.50

These adjustments represent significant changes, such as an increase from £13 to £16 for the Update Service and from £38 to £49.50 for Enhanced DBS checks. Despite these increases, the new fees remain below the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate.

Rationale Behind Fee Adjustments

The DBS operates on a cost-recovery model, funded by the fees paid by customers. Periodic fee reviews ensure the service remains sustainable while maintaining high standards of safeguarding.

Past reductions, such as the drop in Standard DBS checks from £26 pre-2019 to £21.50 now, highlight the DBS’ commitment to balancing operational needs with affordability.

The latest increase follows a surge in demand for DBS checks, necessitating substantial investments in modernizing IT infrastructure and replacing outdated systems. This modernization ensures the continued delivery of a reliable and high-quality service.

Preparing for the Fee Increase

To mitigate the impact, individuals and businesses are encouraged to act before the changes take effect. Taxi drivers, for example, can save up to £14.50 by completing their Enhanced DBS check and registering for the Update Service before 2nd December 2024.

Ensuring Quality and Value

The DBS’ mission to safeguard society remains central to these changes.

By maintaining rigorous standards in its services and decisions, the DBS continues to prioritize public safety while ensuring its operations are financially sustainable.

Benefits of Joining the DBS Update Service

• Save Time and Money: Streamline your processes and reduce costs.
• Transferability of DBS Certificates: Use your DBS certificate across roles within the same workforce, provided the same type and level of check applies.
• Instant Online Status Checks: Employers can quickly verify the status of your DBS certificate linked to your subscription.
• Enhanced Safeguarding: The service supports improved safeguarding practices for greater security.