Introducing Digital Identity for DBS and Right to Work Checks
July 15th, 2022 by Dan Keran
From the 6th April 2022, organisations are permitted to carry out Digital Identity checks as an alternative to checking original identity documents in person. This is an optional process for organisations rather than a requirement.
As announced by the Home Office in December 2021, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) released a Digital Identity Trust Framework for DBS and right to work checks. For DBS checks you must use a certified provider. To become certified, providers need to be audited and accredited to the Government Trust Framework and a specific scheme.
In a recent shift towards increased hybrid and remote working models, this will enable identity checks to be conducted remotely, using an applicant’s own enabled smart phone. Organisations will benefit from:
- Enhanced security
- Reduced risk of human error
- Efficient onboarding process
- Time and cost savings
How will Digital Identity work for DBS and right to work checks?
As a new and emerging industry, there are lots of different ways that Digital Identity will work. The common principle is that the applicant can use technology to verify who they are, to a required standard. For DBS and right to work purposes, the applicant uses their smart phone to scan and read their documents, such as a passport, and then use the camera to match the pictures in the document to a selfie or video. The employer no longer has to see the individual or documents in person.
Are DDC becoming a certified identity checking provider?
Yes. DDC is introducing identity checking technology to become a certified provider. This will allow clients to utilise the Digital Identity process to verify an applicant’s identity for DBS and right to work services. We are currently in the process of building some exciting new technologies into the system, as well as building a mobile app for smartphones. This will allow the seamless integration of Digital Identity into the current systems. The new processes should be available in the next few months.
The DDC Team is working closely with the DBS, Home Office and DCMS to become an Identity Service Provider (IDSP) and has recently passed a trial audit, against the framework.
Is Digital Identity optional?
Yes, the DCMS, DBS and Home Office have been keen to stress that Digital Identity is an optional process and the existing systems will be in place for the foreseeable future.
Can anyone use Digital Identity technology?
Unfortunately, not all applicants will be able to utilise this technology. Digital Identity requires individuals to have scannable documents, such as a passport, and access to a smart phone.
The expectation is that Digital Identity tools will continue to improve and there have been a lot of discussions about the accessibility of Digital Identity for those without the capability, access to technology, or other barriers preventing the use of Digital Identity technology.
Will I be able to use the original process and Digital Identity?
Yes, you will be able to utilise a hybrid identity checking process to ensure all of your applicants can successfully complete a DBS and Right to Work check. Therefore, a combination of verifying original documents and Digital Identity can be used.
Is Digital Identity available for volunteer DBS checks?
Yes, Digital Identity can be utilised for DBS applications including volunteers.
What can be done now?
You can continue with the existing process for verifying your applicant’s identity. This includes utilising the DBS and Home Office adjusted processes. The Home Office announced that right to work checks can continue to be conducted remotely using copies and video call until the 30th of September 2022. The DBS has advised that the adjusted process of seeing copies of documents during the application process, and checking original documents prior to work starting, can be used for the foreseeable future.
How do I find out more?
If you would like to discuss how Digital Identity can fit into your onboarding process, please contact the team on 0116 260 3055 or schedule a call by emailing at newequiries@ddc.uk.net.
