Osman first contacted our helpline in 2021 when he was looking for some help to appeal a university’s decision not to accept him onto a paramedic course. Although his appeal was unsuccessful, he was accepted by another university to study paramedic science after Unlock assisted him with his disclosure letter and supported him through his university Panel Hearing.
As part of the admissions process, the university applied for an enhanced DBS check. This resulted in the DBS writing to Osman stating that they were considering adding him to the adults and children’s barred lists due to a conviction from 2015 when he was aged 13. Having fought so hard to get onto the course, Osman was extremely concerned that if he were added to a barred list, he would never be able to fulfil his dream of becoming a paramedic or working in any type of regulated activity.
We were able to explain how the DBS barring process worked and also what Osman should include in any representation including:
- An explanation of his offending behaviour and any factors he felt might mitigate this.
- A copy of his pre-sentence report, Offender Assessment System report, judges sentencing remarks, probation reports if available.
- Details of his education and plans for his future career.
- Professional references or testimonials.
- Why he believes he poses no current or future risk of harm to any vulnerable group.
Osman was keen to get legal assistance with his representation and instructed a solicitor to help him. He shared the draft representation with us and asked us to provide feedback. The solicitors letter was extremely detailed and Osman had also been able to provide 5 references to accompany it.
Osman contacted us months later stating:
I’ve just heard back from the DBS that I’m not going to be put on a barred list. This means that I can finally concentrate on my paramedic studies without any distractions. I think it’s great that there are charities such as Unlock to support people who have convictions. People make mistakes (especially when they are young, like I was) and I’m very grateful I’ve been given a second chance and can pursue my dream job. So again thank you for being my support throughout this process.
Links
- Practical information: DBS Barring – Representations, reviews and appeals
Notes about this case study
This case study relates to Unlock’s helpline.
Names and details have been changed to protect the identity of those involved.
Published June 2022.
