Criminal record checking process in Northern Ireland

Certain roles at Scouts require a criminal record check. To find out which roles require criminal record checks, please see  POR Chapter 16: Teams Table.

Access Northern Ireland (AccessNI) criminal record checks

AccessNI criminal record checks are part of making safer appointment decisions, making sure only appropriate people work with vulnerable groups, including young people.

Checking of ID documents 

Once an adult has been added to the membership system on scouts.org.uk they should be invited to attend a face-to-face meeting to check their ID and given this invitation letter which provides guidance. Before the check can begin, the volunteer must create an online account on the NI Direct website.

The volunteer will need to have their original ID documents with them. A list of suitable ID documents is available in the invitation letter.

The ID Checker will find further guidance in the ID Checker’s Guidance, including an ANI pin number specific to Scouts.

• The ID checker must only accept valid, current, and original documentation and must not accept photocopies.  Documentation printed from the internet eg internet bank statements must not be accepted.
• The ID checker must ensure that the applicant declares all previous name changes and provides documentary proof to support this change of name. If the applicant is unable to provide this proof, ID checkers will need to have a discussion with the applicant about the reasons why, before considering validating their identity.

Further guidance on identity checking is on the ANI website. 

Rechecks

Scouts require volunteers to update their criminal record check every 5 years. If a volunteer requires a recheck, the ID Checker must use this rechecks invitation letter. There is also guidance on rechecks for the ID Checker.

Issuing of the AccessNI criminal record check

Once AccessNI have issued the certificate, the relevant Lead Volunteer will be notified and the volunteer’s membership record will be updated.

Please note, AccessNI checks are just one element of the National Vetting Process. The issuing of the certificate doesn’t mean the volunteer is able to begin straight away.