You will be aware that, over several years, the arrangements for Diocesan / Parish processing of SVP DBS applications for new members of your Conference have varied in speed and efficiency.
In response to ongoing challenges, and to ensure that new members are welcomed into your Conference without unnecessary delay, the Board of Trustees agreed to bring DBS processing in-house for a trial period of 12 months starting on 16th February 2026. During the period, DBS applications will be processed directly by the SVP rather than through Diocesan and Parish Safeguarding Representatives.
To support this initiative, your Conference will be asked to nominate a member to assist with DBS-related document verification. This is not complicated and will be practical and limited in scope and the SVP Safeguarding team will provide support to your Conference with the process.
We appreciate that changes to long-established arrangements can raise questions. Please be assured that this pilot has been designed with care and respect for our Diocesan relationships, but also with the realities of Conference life firmly in mind.
All DBSs required by your Conference will be processed by the SVP safeguarding team. All you need to do is to contact dbs@svp.org.uk with the name and email of anyone who needs a DBS.
Existing members already hold a satisfactory DBS, you can continue to carry out Conference activities without any interruption and the DBS team will be in touch when it comes time to renew or update your DBS
Click on the links below for further guidance and information: