Physio First members can obtain an up to date DBS certificate by completing a self-service applicaiton, via our Physio First Vetting & Barring Scheme with DDC.
Our partnership with DDC also gives members easy access to Digital Identity Verification. This service can help with, for example, Bupa registration renewal. To obtain digital identity verifications you will need a current UK Passport.
DDC can also help Physio First members who require checks for others working in their practice.
Please contact info@physiofirst.org.uk if you have any queries regarding membership or DBS application
DBS Fee Changes
DBS Fee Changes – Effective 2nd December 2024
Please note that the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has increased its fees.
- The enhanced DBS check fee is now £49.50.
- The total cost, including administration, and VAT is £73.50 for active members accessing the Physio First scheme through DDC.
To join the Scottish PVG scheme, go to: https://www.ddc.uk.net/criminal-record-checks/dbs-check-costs/
Most members will require the enhanced DBS disclosure service.
Iโm a Physio First member โ how can I arrange a DBS check for someone in my team who isnโt a member?
There are three routes depending on how you’d prefer to manage DBS or AccessNI checks for your team:
1. Your colleague joins as an Individual Member
If your colleague becomes a full member of Physio First, they’ll be eligible to apply for a DBS or AccessNI check through our member scheme.
→ Join as an Individual Member
2. You register your clinic directly with DDC
If membership isn’t the right route for your colleague, you can register your clinic directly with our DBS provider DDC as a responsible body. This lets you manage DBS/AccessNI checks independently for any team members.
→ Register with DDC
3. Switch to Clinic Membership
If you currently hold an individual Physio First membership, you can upgrade to Clinic Membership. This gives you full lead access and allows your named team members to be included under your clinic membership — they’ll then be eligible for DBS/AccessNI checks via our scheme, with Physio First acting as the responsible body.
→ Explore Clinic Membership
How do I apply for an enhanced disclosure check in Northern Ireland?
DBS Checks for Northern Ireland (AccessNI)
Can Physio First members apply for enhanced disclosure checks in Northern Ireland?
Yes. Enhanced disclosure checks for individuals based in Northern Ireland are processed through AccessNI rather than the standard DBS route.
How do I request an AccessNI check?
You will need to contact the DDC team directly to request an AccessNI application.
When contacting them, please clearly state that:
- You are a Physio First member
- You require an AccessNI application
DDC will then send you the correct forms to complete.
Can I use the self-registration portal for AccessNI applications?
No.
AccessNI applications cannot be processed through the self-registration portal.
You must contact DDC directly to request the appropriate paperwork.
What is the process for AccessNI applications?
- Contact DDC directly (by phone or email)
- Confirm that you require an AccessNI check
- DDC will send the relevant forms
- Complete and return the forms as instructed
Who do I contact at DDC?
You can contact the DDC team using the details below:
๐ 0116 260 3055
๐ง contact@ddc.uk.net
Is this different from DBS checks in England, Scotland or Wales?
Yes.
- England and Wales use DBS
- Scotland uses PVG
- Northern Ireland uses AccessNI
Each requires a slightly different process, and not all routes are available via the same system.