Guidance for Transgender Candidates on DBS Application and Sensitive Application Route

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) offers a confidential checking process, in line with the **Gender Recognition Act 2004**, for transgender applicants. This service is known as the **DBS Sensitive Application route**. This is a confidential process that ensures your previous names and gender are not disclosed on the final DBS certificate. However, it’s important to note that using the Sensitive route is not mandatory. If you are comfortable with your previous names being included, you can complete the standard application form available on Zinc. In some cases, applications not using the Sensitive route may be flagged or delayed due to gender-related conflicts in the DBS check system. ## When you don’t need to use the Sensitive DBS route If you are comfortable disclosing your previous name(s) on the DBS application form and have sufficient ID documentation in your new name, you can complete the standard DBS process on Zinc. In this case: - You do not need to contact the Sensitive Applications team. - Your previous name(s) may appear on the DBS certificate (depending on any linked records), as they are openly declared in the application. ## When the Sensitive DBS route should be used If you: - Do not want your previous gender identity or name disclosed on the certificate - Are unsure and need to discuss options confidentially - Lack the required documentation to link previous and current identities (for example, no Deed Poll) Then you should contact the Sensitive Applications Team before applying. ## Sensitive application route key steps If you want to avoid disclosing your previous name or gender on the DBS certificate, you should: - Contact the DBS Sensitive Applications Team before submitting your application. This process is candidate-led and must be requested outside of Zinc. - Email **sensitive@dbs.gov.uk** - Submit your application with the Sensitive Team in your current name, title, and gender identity - Provide DBS with your full name history and details of all previous identities so DBS can carry out accurate checks with law enforcement records The Sensitive Applications Team will then: - Review all current and previous names and identities - Carry out the necessary checks confidentially - Ensure that previous gender information does not appear on the final certificate All applications are checked against central and police records using full name history, but only current details will appear on the certificate. If you prefer, you may nominate someone to liaise with the Sensitive Applications Team on your behalf. ## ID verification process for Standard and Enhanced applications You must provide sufficient identity documents for your DBS application through the Sensitive route. If this is not possible, the Sensitive Applications Team will advise on alternative routes. Below are the possible options for Standard and Enhanced applications. ### Option 1 - You have all ID documents in your current name - You complete the form using current title, name, and gender only - You are exempt from answering **Have you been known by any other name?** - DBS carries out checks on all names but ensures only current details appear on the certificate ### Option 2 - You have ID in both previous and current names - You complete the form with your current details and disclose all previous names - You must provide a Change of Name Deed (Deed Poll) to link documents - DBS ensures previous gender details do not appear on the certificate ### Option 3 - You have ID in both names but do not want to disclose previous names on the form - The evidence checker cannot verify identity and DBS arranges fingerprint verification via the police - After verification, DBS conducts checks confidentially ### Option 4 - You have ID only in your previous name, but hold a Change of Name Deed (Deed Poll) - You complete the form with current details and disclose all previous names - The evidence checker uses the deed to link old and new names - DBS ensures confidentiality ### Option 5 - You have ID only in your previous name and do not hold a Deed Poll - You complete the form with current details only - DBS arranges fingerprint verification via the police - Checks are completed confidentially ## Paper application forms Some applicants may need to complete a paper application form, especially where online systems do not accept ID documents in current names or gender. Paper forms can only be requested by Zinc directly to our Registered Body. ## Why the DBS guidelines seem conflicting The DBS guidance includes all possible scenarios. Even in routes where you disclose previous names, the document still recommends contacting the Sensitive Applications team. This is often framed as a safeguard to: - Prevent delays or application conflicts - Ensure accurate background checks, particularly where name changes are recent - Offer you full control over how your information is handled However, it’s not a legal or technical requirement to use the Sensitive route if you are happy disclosing all details and have the required documents. In those cases, you can go through the Zinc DBS application process. ## Additional notes and clarifications - **Mx and other titles**. If you wish to use titles such as **Mx**, you can do so, but you must use a paper application form. - **Title on certificate**. Titles do not appear on the DBS certificate. We recommend you use your current name, title, and gender identity when completing your application even if you do not have ID currently in that title. - **Optional use of the Sensitive route**. The Sensitive route is available only if you wish to keep your previous gender identity private. It’s not a requirement.