CRB Checks – Now Known as DBS Checks
If you’re searching for a CRB checks for employees, you’re probably referring to what is now called a DBS check. The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) was replaced by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in 2012, but the purpose remains the same – to help organisations make safer recruitment decisions.
At Employment Tools by Aaron’s Department, we make it simple for employers to request DBS checks (formerly CRB checks) online, so you can hire with confidence and stay compliant.
Why Get CRB Checks For Employees With Employment Tools?
With over 20 years of experience as an officially registered CRB Check Umbrella Body, we are able to offer you:
What is a CRB Check?
A CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) check is a criminal record check usually carried out by employers or organisations on potential and current staff. It is used to make informed recruitment decisions, and in some cases, to see whether the individual can work with vulnerable adults and children.
They can also be carried out on the likes of volunteers, foster carers, teachers, care workers, and adoption applicants – anywhere where a criminal history could be important to know about.
The Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) merged with the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) in 2012 to become the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
What CRB Checks Can You Request?
Employment Tools offers Basic, Standard, and Enhanced CRB Checks, with the options of Adult First checks and Barred List checks, if applicable.
To read more about these checks, simply select one below:
(with Barred Lists checks if necessary)
CRB Checks for Volunteers
If your organisation relies on volunteers, carrying out the correct CRB checks is essential for safeguarding and compliance. A CRB check for volunteers works the same way as it does for paid staff, but the key difference is cost: volunteers do not pay the DBS fee for Standard or Enhanced checks. This makes volunteer CRB checks far more affordable, while still giving you access to the information you need to make safe recruitment decisions.
Volunteer CRB checks are commonly required in roles involving children or vulnerable adults, such as charity projects, mentoring, community support, or care environments. Even if a role is unpaid, you still have a legal responsibility to ensure that volunteers are suitable and safe to be placed in positions of trust.
With Employment Tools, you can request Standard or Enhanced CRB checks for volunteers quickly and securely. Our system guides you through the eligibility rules, prevents common application errors, and helps you stay compliant with up-to-date safeguarding requirements. All results and proof are stored in your dashboard, so you have a clear audit trail whenever you need it.
If you rely on volunteers, getting the right checks in place protects both the people you support and the reputation of your organisation.
Free CRB Checks for Volunteers
Volunteers who receive no payment or benefits for their work (except for travel and other approved out-of-pocket expenses) can get a Standard or Enhanced CRB check with no application fee!
CRB Check Price
When you sign up for CRB checks with Employment Tools, there are no registration fees, hidden costs, or minimum spends.
All you pay for is what you need, and not a penny more.
All Admin fees below can be reduced even further by taking advantage of our Free Admin Credit System
| Disclosure Type | CRB Application Fee (No VAT) | Admin Fee (+VAT) | Total (+Admin Fee VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic CRB Check | £21.50 | £5.45 | £26.95 |
| Standard CRB Check | £21.50 | £8.75 | £30.25 |
| Standard CRB Check (Volunteer) | £0 | £8.75 | £8.75 |
| Enhanced CRB Check | £49.50 | £10.95 | £60.45 |
| Enhanced CRB Check (Volunteer) | £0 | £10.95 | £10.95 |
| Adult First Check | £6 | £5.45 | £11.45 |
| CRB Check | CRB Application Fee (No VAT) |
Admin Fee (+ VAT) |
Qty | CRB Total | Admin Fee Total |
|---|
Breakdown
Breakdown
Admin fees under £199.99 do not qualify for free admin credit.
We prefer bank transfers because they help us keep costs down, so we pass that saving straight on to you!
CRB Online Registration
To get CRB checks for employees, or CRB checks for volunteers, all you need to do is register below. In as little as 5 minutes, you could be setting up your first CRB check.
There is no registration fee, minimum spend, or contract obligations. Simply request CRB checks for employees when you need them.
Benefits of Using us For Your Online CRB Checks
Here are some of the features you’ll benefit from when you get a CRB check online with Aaron’s Department:
CRB FAQs
Are CRB checks still valid?
No, CRB checks were replaced by DBS checks in 2012. If you have an old CRB certificate, it’s still technically valid, but employers should request a new DBS check as it is very outdated.
Do volunteers need to pay for a CRB check?
No, volunteers who require a Standard or Enhanced CRB Check, and meet the government’s definition, only pay our admin fee.
How long does a CRB check take?
The majority of our CRB applications are completed within a few days, if not the same day. Times vary depending on the type of check, the information required, and which local police force are doing the checks.
Can I apply for my own CRB check?
You can apply for a Basic CRB check yourself. Standard and Enhanced checks must be requested by an employer or organisation.
Can I Get a CRB Check For Teachers?
Teachers can get a CRB check, and usually require an Enhanced level.
What is a CRB security check?
A CRB security check is the old name for what is now called a DBS check. It is a criminal record check used to help employers confirm whether someone is safe and suitable for a role, especially in security, care, or working with vulnerable groups. Since 2012, all CRB checks have been replaced by DBS checks.
Are CRB checks the same as DBS checks?
Yes. CRB checks no longer exist, and all criminal record checks are now done through the DBS. When people refer to a “CRB check,” they almost always mean a DBS check.
Can individuals still apply for a CRB check?
Individuals can apply for a Basic CRB check, but Standard and Enhanced checks must be requested by an employer or organisation.
How long does a CRB check take?
At Employment Tools, applications sent to us before 4pm are processed the same day, which often leads to much faster turnaround times. They are usually completed within 10 working days, but we see them completed a lot sooner.
Do volunteers need a CRB check?
Yes – if they would need a CRB check as a paid worker, then they will need one as a volunteer.
How do I get a CRB check today?
You now apply for a DBS check instead. Employers can request them directly through an approved Umbrella Body. Individuals can request a Basic DBS check for themselves, but Standard and Enhanced checks must go through an organisation.
Can I fast-track a CRB check?
Whilst the DBS do not offer a fast-track option, at Employment Tools, any CRB check submitted to us before 4pm will be processed the same day.
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