DBS Service Update: New Platform Launching 1 October 2026
We're launching a new DBS platform in partnership with Complete Background Screening (CBS)!
Introducing Our New DBS Service
We are pleased to announce that Complete Background Screening (CBS) has been appointed as the new DBS provider for Essex HR Shared Services (E2E Vetting).
Following a comprehensive procurement process and valuable customer feedback, we are introducing a new platform that will bring Basic, Standard and Enhanced DBS checks together into a single system from 1st October 2026.
What's Changing?
The new CBS platform has been designed to provide a more streamlined and efficient experience for both administrators and applicants.
Key improvements include:
- Management of Basic, Standard and Enhanced DBS checks in one platform
- Reduced administration and simplified processes
- Improved visibility and application management
- Enhanced reporting functionality
- Improved user experience
- Access to modern platform functionality and technology
Why Are We Making This Change?
In accordance with public procurement regulations, we were obliged to undertake an open tender process for our next Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) provider. This was a mandatory requirement to ensure that we remained compliant while continuing to deliver a high-quality, value driven service to our customers.
We also issued a survey to our customers and feedback highlighted a desire for:
- Better reporting and application tracking
- More efficient processes
- Stronger user management capabilities
- Improved integration opportunities
- A simpler applicant journey
Following the tender process, we were delighted to award CBS.
Key Dates and What You Need to Know
CBS Go-Live
The new CBS Vetting System will go live on Thursday 1st October 2026.
Your login details will be sent on the day from no-reply@pm.cbscheck.com. Please keep an eye on your inbox (and junk folder) for this email.
DBS Fee Reductions
From Monday 5th October 2026, DBS fees will reduce to:
- Basic DBS Check: £20.00 (previously £21.50)
- Standard DBS Check: £20.00 (previously £21.50)
- Enhanced DBS Check: £41.00 (previously £49.50)
Please note that any and all admin fees included within your contract will remain the same.
Information For Existing Customers
If you have candidates who have not yet completed their submissions on the current system, please encourage them to do so.
This will need to be actioned before 23 September 2026.
Please ensure you download any records or completed checks from the current system that you wish to retain before 23 September 2026.
Instructions on how to do this are:
- Log in to the E2E Vetting System before 23rd September 2026.
- Click on ‘Compliance Checks’ in the header bar.
- Filter the status to show ‘Completed’ checks.
- Open the relevant application.
- Scroll down to the results section.
- Locate the ‘Certificate Number’ and ‘Certificate Status’ fields.
- Select the Print icon to save or print the record for your files.
If you have any questions about the transition, please do not hesitate to contact the team.
To support you with the transition, you can access the following resources:
- Customer Hub
- User Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Access resources here: https://upgrade.cbscreening.co.uk/resources/
Join one of our free online demonstration sessions to see the new platform in action.
We’ll cover:
- Logging in
- User roles and permissions
- Creating and managing DBS checks
- The applicant journey
- Reporting functionality
- Available support and guidance
You will also have the opportunity to ask questions directly to the project team.
We’ll be covering the same information in each session, so simply join the session that works best for you.
If you’re an existing customer and would like to access one of the following training sessions, please contact us at DBSServiceCentre@essex.gov.uk
Date Time Tuesday 22nd September 10:00am – 11:00am Thursday 24th September 2:00pm – 3:00pm Monday 28th September 10:00am – 11:00am Tuesday 29th September 11:00am – 12:00pm Before the move to CBS, please ensure you have:
☐ Submitted any outstanding candidates before 23rd September (5:00pm)
☐ Encouraged candidates with incomplete submissions to take action
☐ Downloaded any required records from E2E
☐ Attended a CBS drop-in session
☐ Looked out for your CBS login details on 1st October
☐ Considered delaying non-urgent DBS checks until 5 October to benefit from reduced fees
Any questions?
Keen to make the most of our DBS service, or simply have a query about our new system? Contact the team by email at:
DBSServiceCentre@essex.gov.uk
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