Access Northern Ireland Checks
Criminal record checks for employees living and working in Northern Ireland.
Access Northern Ireland (AccessNI) operate their own criminal record checking department for employers and charities to request an applicants criminal record. Organisations can use an Umbrella Body service, like DDC, to request Access Northern Ireland criminal record checks easily and efficiently for staff and volunteers.
DDC as a registered Umbrella Body
Due Diligence Checking Limited (DDC) are a Registered Umbrella Body with AccessNI allowing us to submit applications for employees living and working in Northern Ireland. To request Access NI criminal record checks please register with us and open an account today. There are no set-up fees or registration costs.
Eligibility for an AccessNI criminal record check
The eligibility criteria to allow an employer to request an Enhanced or Standard AccesssNI check can be found on the AccessNI website. Generally, this is very similar to the DBS requirements however further information is available on their website. Employers should evaluate the role that is offered to the employee and decide on the most appropriate level for the type of work being done. Common roles eligible for an enhanced AccessNI check include:
- Teachers and school staff
- Doctors, Nurses and Carers
- Volunteering with children
- Contractors on school site
- Dentists
You can request a basic AccessNI check on any role within your organisation.
AccessNI fees
The standard fees for AccessNI criminal record applications are as follows:
Service and Disclosure Type | DDC Fees (ex. VAT) | Access NI Fees (VAT exempt) | Total (inc. VAT where applicable) |
| Basic AccessNI Check | £20.00 | £18.00 | £42.00 |
| Standard AccessNI Check | £20.00 | £18.00 | £42.00 |
| Enhanced AccessNI Check | £20.00 | £33.00 | £57.00 |
| Volunteer AccessNI Check (Standard and Enhanced checks only) | £20.00 | Free | £24.00 |
If you are requesting a large volume of checks, please contact one of the team on 0845 644 3298 to discuss the pricing options.
The DDC process
Please find below a default process that we use to process applications with AccessNI, however, our system is flexible and can be tailored to accommodate your processes as required, with numerous options and system features available. If you have any specific questions or requirements why not call one of the team on 0116 260 3055?
Step 1: Basic applicant information is entered onto the DDC portal (log-in details provided after registration and account set-up).
Step 2: DDC will contact the applicant to provide guidance on setting up an online account with AccessNI, and entering form information required to process the applications.
Step 3: The applicant will provide original ID documents which need to be verified (either by the employer or DDC Ltd). Documents will then be cross-referenced with the form information to ensure they match. Any discrepancies or differences will be identified and queried with the applicant directly.
Step 4: DDC will submit the form online to AccessNI and track the application to ensure it is processed as quickly as possible. Any queries from AccessNI will be dealt with by a DDC Countersignatory as soon as possible.
Step 5: The Certificate will be issued, printed and posted to DDC, with a copy sent directly to the applicant’s home address.
Why choose DDC for your AccessNI checks?
Utilising DDC’s specialist online AccessNI criminal record checking services you will benefit from:
- Quick and free set-up – you can be processing your checks the same day with DDC’s free registration and set-up.
- Support and advice – you will have access to DDC’s experienced Customer Service Team providing support advice for all your checks. The current team have over 100 years of combined experience within the industry.
- Service to suit your needs – with bespoke packages and a flexible system, DDC can accommodate all sectors and organisations.
- Secure and reliable – DDC’s system and processes have obtained ISO9001 and ISO27001 accreditation promising you a secure and reliable service.
- Single management interface – manage all your checks with a single interface, using our dynamic Client Area.
How do I get started?
To start processing your AccessNI criminal record checks you can register your organisation for free. Whether you have a single office with a few core employees or multiple offices with a multi-tiered organisational structure, our online system will meet your needs and allow you to track your applications from start to finish. We will provide you with support and advice during set-up, and ensure your account settings accommodate your requirements.
