Safeguarding Checks
People working or volunteering with children may need an appropriate safeguarding check. Checks may also be required for some roles involving adults who receive health or social care. The type and level of check depend on where in the UK the role is carried out and on the activities and responsibilities involved.
Learn more about how to complete applications for a vetting check below.
The type of safeguarding check required depends on where in the UK you are carrying out your role and what activities your role involves.
Which system applies?
| England & Wales | Northern Ireland | Scotland |
| Disclosure & Barring Service | Access NI | PVG Scheme |
Roles involving children may be eligible for an Enhanced DBS check. Where the role is regulated activity with children, the check can include the Children's Barred List. Supervision by another adult does not remove regulated activity status where the other criteria are met.
Relevant child activities carried out more than once, but not often enough to meet the regulated activity period condition, may still be eligible for an Enhanced DBS check without a Children's Barred List check.
Some roles involving adults who receive health or social care may also be eligible for an Enhanced DBS check. The adult rules are different from the child rules and may or may not permit an Adults' Barred List check, depending on the activity.
DBS Eligibility Guidance - Eligibility Flowchart
Applying for a DBS Check - England and Wales
Coaches in Northern Ireland can apply for their check via this link. Coaches are expected to apply for an enhanced check and pay the NI Sports forum who act as the umbrella body.
It is recommended that coaches renew every three years and you should follow the flow diagram as per DBS requirements to see if you require a check.
More information can be found on the NIOA website.
To obtain a pin number contact safeguarding@niorienteering.org.uk
Scotland operates a separate safeguarding vetting system through Disclosure Scotland. People carrying out a regulated role with children or protected adults must follow the applicable PVG Scheme requirements and Scottish Orienteering Association guidance.
More information can be found on the SOA website.
Or email info@scottish-orienteering.org
Information disclosed on a safeguarding check does not automatically prevent someone from taking part in orienteering; relevant information will be assessed confidentially in accordance with British Orienteering’s safeguarding and safer recruitment procedures.
Need help?
If you are unsure which check applies to your role, please contact safeguarding@britishorienteering.org.uk.