How a deed poll interacts with DBS checks

Updating the DBS record

The DBS update procedure is:

1. Have your deed poll signed and witnessed.
2. If you are on the DBS Update Service (a £13/year subscription), log in and update your registered name; you can also add your previous name as an alias.
3. Your employer (or you, if self-employed) applies for a new enhanced check (or status check) using your new name as the principal name and your previous name(s) as "also known as".
4. The DBS issues a fresh certificate showing the disclosure check under your new name, with the previous names listed.

Previous names on enhanced DBS checks

Enhanced DBS checks list any previous names you have used to the age of 18 (the lookback period) for the disclosure to be fully executed. This is a feature, not an error: it ensures your full record is examined regardless of the name you were using at the time of any incident. If you fail to disclose a previous name, the check is void and you may be committing an offence under the Police Act 1997.

For basic checks (no barred-list information), the previous-name disclosure is also required but the lookback period covers the working-age window relevant to the role.

Scotland (PVG) and Northern Ireland (AccessNI)

Scotland operates the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme run by Disclosure Scotland. The PVG record updates on application, not automatically. You notify Disclosure Scotland of your name change by submitting a Scheme Record Update application with your deed poll as evidence.

Northern Ireland operates AccessNI (an executive agency within the Department of Justice). The check and update process mirrors the GB DBS — apply for a fresh enhanced check in your new name with previous names disclosed.

Timeframes and costs

Standard enhanced DBS check: ~8 weeks (some sectors ~4 weeks). Update Service subscription: £13/year (volunteers free). A new enhanced check costs £40 in 2026. Your employer typically pays this if you're working; self-employed individuals cover the cost themselves.

See the GOV.UK DBS Update Service page for the current fee schedule and application forms.