DBS Check Information for Clubs

From November 6th 2023, all DBS checks on affiliated club officials (e.g. coaches, welfare officers, referees) in England and Wales must be undertaken via the Know Your People (KYP) online platform.  All applications for new checks will be initiated by British Fencing.

You will need to apply to BF to start the process using this form: New DBS Check Request

BF will send you a link to start the check by email. You will then have to verify your documents.

There are three methods for document verification for new DBS checks:

• Digital ID
• In-person at selected Post Offices
• At limited BF Events – requires pre-booking of an appointment

Each verification check will carry a charge which is levied by the individual organisation.

Once you have received your DBS certificate, applicants are strongly advised to register for the DBS Update Service to ensure continuity of their DBS check.  This must be done within 30 days of the certificate issue date.

This is free for volunteers, but carries an annual cost of £13 for paid workforce.

This has the benefit that you will not require multiple checks and that you only need to go through document verification once.  Once you have registered, then you need to give permission to BF to access your information.

We will be producing a user guide shortly to help with the process.

Please note the following:

• The DBS Update Service is entirely independent to the KYP system.
• Checks can only be undertaken on people who are current members of British Fencing and are undertaking regulated activity within the sport.
• Clubs will no longer be required to process checks at a local level.

If you have any queries, then please contact BF via development@britishfencing.com.