What is an AccessNI check?

An AccessNI check covers an individual’s criminal history information for people working within Northern Ireland. This check is primarily to help organisations make a safer recruitment decision when employing staff. Some organisations are required by law to consider the suitability of applicants for certain positions or to ensure that they are not barred from working with vulnerable groups.

See steps below, or listen to the quick step by step guide video on how to complete an enhanced Access NI check that you have been asked to complete to carry out your role within the organisation you work or volunteer for:

  1. Before completing the enhanced form you need, please make sure you know what your role is and why the check is required to do the role

  2. Apply for the enhanced check by clicking the attached link - https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/accessni-criminal-record-checks/apply-accessni-check

  3. You will need to create an account with Access NI before you can apply for the check

  4. Once account is created, please keep your login details safe as you will require these to sign back in again to review your online certificate

  5. Before you starting completing the check please make sure you have - your last 5 years address history, your National Insurance number, Driving Licence and or Passport details

  6. Step 1 of the application will require you to enter a PIN code number that will be allocated to the lead signatory within NDCN so that the ID check can be done after you have completed your application.  The PIN code you require is - 464701

  7. Complete the remainder of the form with your personal details as it asks.  Once your application is complete you will be given a 10 digit reference number, please take a note of this number and keep safe until you receive your certificate.

  8. You then need to contact NDCN and chat to Lindsey and arrange a date/time suitable to come in and present your ID in person.  Your application at this stage is with NDCN and not Access NI, it does not get sent to Access NI until the id checks are completed.  Contact Lindsey by email - wellbeingndcn@gmail.co.uk or call 91 461 386

  9. Once you have confirmed a date/time to present your ID, please come to our Wellbeing Centre 25-27 Main Street, Bangor with the 3 forms of ID you will need (1x photographic and 2 others with your current address dated within the last 3 months)

  10. The final stage is to confirm payment.  Confirm with the organisation who has asked you for this check whether you need to pay directly to us or whether they need invoiced for the payment.

Access NI Explained