Member notice: Your DBS checks will soon be faster and easier | Brass Bands England

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Member notice: Your DBS checks will soon be faster and easier

Thursday, 4 September, 2025

 

We’re changing how we process DBS checks. From 1 November 2025, Brass Bands England will be moving to a new system that will reduce waiting times from weeks to just a few days.

This change is designed to make life simpler for bands, reduce paperwork, and ensure your members can get on with making music. It also removes the need for bands to carry out ID checks themselves, making the process easier and more streamlined.

What’s improving?

  • No more paper forms – you won’t need to post anything to us.
  • Faster turnaround – checks will normally be completed in days, not months.
  • Flexible ID checks – band members can verify their ID digitally from home, or at a local Post Office.
  • Less admin for bands – the process will be managed online by our trusted partner, CBS.
  • No band ID checking required – bands will no longer need to check and sign off members’ ID documents.

How does this affect me and my band?

  • Free checks remain – each BBE member band will continue to receive free volunteer DBS checks every year as part of membership. The number available is based on your band’s membership level (between 2–5 free checks).
  • Paid roles – DBS checks for paid positions will continue to be available at a discounted rate.
  • More efficient – while the number of free checks will now be capped, in practice this will cover the needs of most bands. Changes are based on member feedback and usage – we know you value speed over quantity.​​​​​​​

What if I need a DBS before November?

To prepare for this change, our current paper-based DBS service will pause from 22 September to 1 November 2025.

  • If you need a DBS check before the pause, please request it as soon as possible.
  • We will stop sending out paper application forms from 22 September 2025. Instead we will send you a link to the new, faster digital system which comes online on 1 November 2025.
  • We will continue to process any paper forms ordered prior to this date until the end of 2025.

You’ll soon benefit from a quicker, easier DBS service that saves your band time and hassle. Full instructions on how to request a DBS under the new system will be circulated to members prior to launch.