Disciplinary

I've been suspended, accused or referred to the DBS

Being accused doesn't mean you've done anything wrong. You have the right to a fair process, to see the evidence, to be accompanied, and to answer any DBS 'minded to bar' letter.

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The interactive version is available in 6 languages and Easy Read.

Your rights

To know what you're accused of, and to see the evidence before any hearing.
To be accompanied at disciplinary and grievance hearings by a colleague or a trade union rep.
To appeal against any decision.
Suspension should be a neutral act, kept as short as possible and reviewed regularly.
If the DBS is considering barring you, the chance to send written representations first.

What to do next

Don't resign in the heat of the moment. Get advice first.
Ask for the allegations, the evidence and the policy being used, in writing.
Write your own account of events while it's fresh.
If you get a DBS letter, respond before the deadline. A union or solicitor can help.

Say this

“Please send me the allegations and the evidence in writing. I'd like to be accompanied at any meeting.”

The law behind it (England)

Acas Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Proceduresfair disciplinary process
Employment Relations Act 1999s.10 right to be accompanied
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006barring and the right to make representations

Elsewhere in the UK

Scotland: In Scotland, barring is handled by Disclosure Scotland (the PVG scheme), and the SSSC may look at your fitness to practise.
Wales: The DBS covers Wales. Social Care Wales may also look at your fitness to practise.
Northern Ireland: The DBS covers barring in Northern Ireland, through AccessNI. The NISCC may also look at your fitness to practise.

Easy Read

What you need to know

Being accused does not mean you did something wrong.
You can see the evidence.
You can bring someone with you to meetings.
If the DBS writes to you, you can reply.

What you can do

Do not quit in a hurry. Get advice first.
Write down your side of what happened.

Last reviewed: November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. How we check our information.