DBS (England & Wales) Applications

Q – Does RDA process DBS (England & Wales) applications?

A – No. From October 2018 RDA National is no longer a Registered Body and therefore cannot process DBS applications. We can help you get started with Disclosure Services or DiscloseSURE who are 2 alternative companies, but there is no obligation to use them. Groups are welcome to find Registered Bodies suitable for them.

Scotland will continue to use the PVG Scheme, whilst RDANI is a registered body for Access NI checks. 

DBS (England & Wales) Payment

Q – I thought DBS applications are FREE for Volunteers? Why do we have to pay?

A – All DBS (England &  Wales) applications for volunteers are free. However, registered bodies do tend to add an admin charge to applicants, due to the amount of time it takes to process and check the forms are filled in correctly.

Renewal of Disclosure Checks
Q – When do we have to re-do our Disclosure checks?
A – It is now a mandatory requirement that all RDA DBS (England & Wales) & Access NI checks are renewed every 3 years. This applies to all eligible volunteers/staff, regardless of how long they have been with their group.

Safeguarding Courses

Q – Who needs to go on a safeguarding course?

A – Your safeguarding officer and any Coaches/ CD Coaches need to attend a safeguarding course. 

Q – I have found a safeguarding course in my area. Is it adequate for RDA?

A  – The RDA will accept any safeguarding course as long as it covers the following criteria

• What is Safeguarding?
• Types of Abuse
• Safeguarding Good Practice (eg policies, safe recruitment, risk assessments, code of conduct)
• Dealing with Concerns/Allegations
• Accredited certificate of attendance is available to all who attend the course

Q – One of my new coaches has already been on a safeguarding course. Can we still accept this?

A  –  Yes you can accept a safeguarding certificate that has been taken before they have become an RDA Coach/RDA CD Coach. You must have sight of a certificate of attendance for this course and it must have covered the criteria stated above and is no more than 3 years old. (Please note all coaches/safeguarding officers certificates must be refreshed every 3 years.)

Please note: This page is just for general guidance, if you would like to talk further about any questions then please do contact the staff at the National Office.