Please see latest information from LTA re DBS checks:

Dear County Safeguarding Officers

LTA CHANGES TO DBS CHECKS

The LTA is implementing temporary changes to DBS checks required for roles in tennis.

This decision has been made in light of the suspension of tennis activity, difficulties regarding online ID verification and to reduce the demand on the DBS service due to the current health crisis.

Whilst the DBS temporarily changed the ID checking process to allow remote verification, this is for urgent applications only and on the basis that the individual brings copies of their ID to the first session they are working/volunteering at.  It could be several months before an in-person ID check can be completed, during which time the original documents may be mislaid.  There is also the risk that the requirement to check the documents at the first session may not happen.       

Therefore, as of today, we ask that no new DBS applications care submitted until further notice, but provisionally until 31 July 2020. For the avoidance of doubt this means that individuals will not be permitted to take on any new roles which require a DBS check to work with children during this time. The date of 31st July coincides with the current extension to validity of coach accreditation.

All individuals who hold current DBS checks with the LTA which are due to expire before 31 July 2020, will not be required to renew their DBS check until that time and will not be able to apply for a new DBS check.

The above measures extend to individuals registered with the Update Service.

The 31 July 2020 date will remain under weekly review and may be amended in line with DBS guidance and Government guidance. Should lockdown end and tennis resume earlier we will of course look to re-open checks asap.

Once the lockdown restrictions end and when these changes are reversed, individuals should ensure that they initiate their application for a DBS check accordingly.  

We will provide further updates on DBS checks, including when people are able to apply again, in due course.  

 FAQs

I am an Accredited coach and my DBS check expires before 31 July 2020. I will not be able to renew my Accreditation because this also expires before 31 July 2020. What does this mean for me?

We have agreed a period of leniency for all LTA Accredited Coaches which will see a temporary extension to their Accreditation grace period and insurance policies until 31 July 2020.

I am a Welfare Officer and my DBS check expires before 31 July 2020.  Do I need to ask someone with a current DBS check to cover the role for me until I am able to apply for a new DBS check?

No.  We have agreed a period of leniency for Welfare Officers during which time your DBS and face to face safeguarding training requirements will not apply. This will be in place until 31st July.

My DBS check expires shortly after 31 July 2020, what should I do?

At this time you do not need to do anything.  We will keep the date of 31 July 2020 under weekly review and extend it if needed. We will ensure that there is sufficient time for people to apply for a DBS check whilst maintaining robust safer recruitment measures are in place.

 I am on the Update Service and want the LTA to complete a Status Check for my role.  Is this possible?

No.  Due to the social distancing measures and the LTA’s furlough process, this will not be possible.

I urgently require a check for my role.  Is this possible?

In exceptional circumstances we may be able to process a check for you, please contact the LTA safeguarding team if you believe this to be the case.

Kind regards

Safeguarding Team