Do you know which organisations have access to the Police National Computer (PNC)?

Most people with a criminal record will be aware of the role that the Police National Computer (PNC) plays in being the source of information that is used to reveal criminal records on official disclosures, such as basic and enhanced criminal record checks.

However, many people will be surprised to learn that a wide range of non-police organisations have access to the PNC. We’ve produced some new information which sets out who these organisations are and what steps are taken to ensure that data about you is protected.

In 2016, Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) carried out inspections on 10 non-police agencies who had access to the PNC. Between them they had carried out 50,000 searches of the PNC over a 2 year period. The majority of these were to investigate specific crimes or to vet job applicants taking on sensitive roles such as police officers, prison officers and some judicial appointments.

For more information

1. For practical self-help information – More information is available on our sharing of criminal records section
2. Questions – If you have any questions about this, you can contact our helpline.