What is the difference between a Disclosure and a CRB / DBS Check?

February 13th, 2013 by Jonathan Bazely

A ‘DBS check’ is the general name of the application process for checking an individuals criminal record through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). This was previously called a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check, however the name changed in 2012. A Disclosure is the name of the specific document issued by the DBS, Disclosure Scotland or Access Northern Ireland that contains the information relating to that applicant. Depending on the relevant authority used to apply, the information may be displayed in different ways. Generally speaking the applicant will always be sent, or have access to, their copy of the Disclosure document.