Organisations that process large numbers of job
applications can use ane-Bulk electronic
servicefrom the Criminal Record Bureau to
check batches of applicants online with the Police National
Database.
The system relies on secure messaging to send job applicants'
details through the Criminal Justice Exchange system using the
Government Secure Intranet. Organisations can then access the
results using a secure FTP site.
Adele Townsend, director of programmes and corporate services at
the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB), said organisations who make more
than 3,000 checks a year can now use the CRB e-Bulk to send
multiple applications and receive the results electronically.
She said high-volume customers, which submit 50% of all
applications to the CRB, can now be handled electronically. The
remaining 50% of checks will still require a manuel check although
future plans involve extending online checks to individuals/
smaller organisations."The launch of our first electronic
application system represents a significant milestone for the CRB
and demonstrates our commitment to make all of our services
accessible electronically," said Adele Townsend.
Annually the CRB completes more than 3.5 million checks against
criminal records and lists of those barred from working with the
vulnerable. Half of all applications come from 265 organisations,
which will be offered the e-Bulk system.
The CRB said the e-Bulk service will reduce the average
processing time by around five days and allow organisations to
integrate the checks into their own recruitment processes.
Of the 34 customers who have signed up to the new service,
Girlguiding UK is the first one to use it.
Denise King, CEO of Girlguiding UK, said: "Parents trust our
organisation because we have a sound recruitment process which
includesCRB checks. This new service will provide real benefits,
not only to us as an organisation but also to our young members and
volunteers. This new e-application channel will help us reduce
bureaucracy, improve quality and speed up the process."