In the UK, this is performed by the Government agency the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Osteopathy as a profession is excluded from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, so all convictions will be listed whether spent or unspent.

Applying for a DBS check

In order to apply for registration with the GOsC, you will be required to obtain the highest level of DBS check which is an Enhanced with Barred List(s) DBS check.

You cannot apply for a DBS check as an individual, you must submit an application via an umbrella body that is registered with the DBS.

We have a relationship with one of these umbrella bodies, First Advantage, which processes all DBS checks on behalf of the GOsC. If you go through First Advantage, you can apply for your DBS check online.

Results of the check (disclosure)

Nominated users from the GOsC will be able to access your completed disclosure via a secure website provided by First Advantage. We do not receive paper copies.

If there are any cautions or convictions displayed on your DBS disclosure, the results are not available to the GOsC online. You will need to send a copy of your DBS disclosure to us directly and the easiest way of doing this is via email.

Existing DBS disclosures

We accept DBS disclosures that are within six months from the date of issue when your application is ready to be considered for registration.

If you already have a DBS disclosure and would like to see if you can use it to support your GOsC application, please send the full disclosure certificate to us via email so we can let you know.

The DBS Update Service

If you are subscribed to the DBS Update Service, you may not be required to complete another DBS disclosure. In order for us to confirm this, you would need to submit your original disclosure certificate to us via email. We would check this is the correct level of DBS check and confirm that your details remain current on the DBS Update Service.

If your original DBS disclosure is the correct level and your details are verified on the DBS Update Service, you will not need to obtain a new DBS check.

Contact details

If you have any questions about the DBS check requirements for registration, please contact us at registration@osteopathy.org.uk.