Report a problem about a criminal record check or barring decision
Appeal against an existing barring decision
You can ask the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) to review a barring decision if:
- you were automatically added to the barred list following a relevant caution or conviction
- you believe DBS has made a legal mistake
- DBS barred you based on information that was wrong
You can also ask for a review if your circumstances change after the minimum barred period.
The minimum barred period is:
| Age | Minimum barred period |
|---|---|
| Under 18 | 1 year |
| 18 to 24 | 5 years |
| 25 or over | 10 years |
You can use the following evidence to prove that your circumstances have changed:
- medical reports
- a successful appeal against a conviction
- a specialist assessment
Contact DBS to ask for a review. It’s up to them whether they choose to review.
DBS helpline
Telephone: 03000 200190
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Appeal against the outcome of a DBS review
You can appeal to a tribunal if you asked DBS to review a barring list decision, and they either:
- refused to conduct a review
- decided to keep you on the barred list after a review
The tribunal may remove a person from the barred list if it agrees with the appeal. It’s up to the tribunal whether they hear the appeal.
Contact the Upper Tribunal to appeal against a DBS barred list review in England or Wales.
Upper Tribunal
adminappeals@justice.gov.uk
Telephone: 020 7071 5662
Fax: 020 7071 5663
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Administrative Appeals Chamber
5th Floor Rolls Building
7 Rolls Buildings
Fetter Lane
London
EC4A 1NL
Contact the Care Tribunal to appeal against a DBS barred list review in Northern Ireland.
Care Tribunal
tribunalsunit@courtsni.gov.uk
Telephone: 02890 327703
Find out about call charges
Care Tribunal
Tribunal Hearing Centre
2nd Floor, The Annex
Royal Courts of Justice
Chichester Street
Belfast
BT1 3JF