Taxi and Private Hire Disclosure Barring Service Checks

This Procurement will deliver Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks to Candidates applying for a new or renewal Private Hire (ph.) driver licence or Taxi driver licence. Completing an Enhanced DBS is a compulsory requirement in order to be eligible for a licence. For taxi vehicle owners and operator key personnel a basic disclosure may be needed as it is subject to consultation.

This check is a key requirement to ensure the applicant meets TfL fit and proper criteria. In addition, there is a requirement for TfL's Dial-a-Ride staff to have completed either a basic DBS or Enhanced DBS check as its staff are frequently in contact with vulnerable groups.

The Disclosure Barring Service is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Home Office, which undertake DBS checks.

The DBS has identified umbrella bodies who can manage a DBS check application on behalf of organisations or Candidates, as Candidates cannot request an Enhanced check directly from the DBS.

This contract will be the continuation for the provision of a DBS checking service that enables Candidates to apply for a DBS check via one umbrella body that has been designated by TfL. This will allow online applications and if required a paper option for DBS applications, using the umbrella bodies interface and link with the DBS. Candidates and key TfL staff will have the ability to access updates on the status of their application via the Service provider. As a minimum, this will be online and via their contact centre will receive a certificate directly from the DBS. This service provides a secure interface, meeting all DBS's standards and security.

Potential suppliers interested in taking part in any market engagement exercise and/or participating in any subsequent procurement process are requested to express an interest by following the instructions detailed in section II.2.14. Additional information: The purpose of this PIN is to:

(a) alert potential suppliers to opportunities in relation to the provision of Taxi and Private Hire Disclosure Barring Service Checks.

(b) inform potential suppliers of possible early market engagement arrangements in relation to the procurement of Taxi and Private Hire Disclosure Barring Service Checks.

(c) invite potential suppliers to register an expression of interest in taking part in any potential procurement process.

(d) encourage suppliers to provide information in relation to any early market engagement feedback.

Any parties interested in taking part in this Procurement and market engagement exercise should register their interest by emailing James.Mckinnion@tfl.gov.uk and provide details of your organisation and key contact details.

As part of this Market Engagement exercise, Transport for London are currently implementing a new licensing technology solution for Taxi and Private Hire drivers and operators. It is anticipated that the Disclosure Barring Service will integrate with this solution to enable applicants to complete their license application. This integration is expected to make it as easy as possible for applicants to complete the process and avoid re-keying information provided earlier in the application process. The Provider's online solution would allow applicants to submit an electronic DBS check, whilst providing an interface into Transport for London's existing licensing system to provide the result of the applicants DBS check. Following this, Transport for London are requesting some feedback from the market on an indication of the anticipated timescales it would take to mobilise their solution.

Neither the registration or non-registration of interest nor the participation or non-participation in any early market engagement will advantage or disadvantage any supplier's ability to participate in any future procurement activity.

This PIN does not formally signify the beginning of a procurement and does not constitute a commitment by Transport for London to undertake any procurement exercise. In the event that Transport for London decides to formally commence the procurement of the Taxi and Private Hire Disclosure Barring Checks Agreement a separate contract notice will be issued.

Transport for London will not enter into a contract based solely on the responses to this PIN or any subsequent early market engagement exercise and no information contained in this document or in any communication made between Transport for London, its subsidiaries or advisers and any supplier in connection with this PIN or any early market engagement exercise shall be relied upon as constituting a contract, agreement or representation that any contract shall be offered in accordance with this PIN.

Potential suppliers shall be solely responsible for any costs which they incur as a result of responding to this PIN and participating in any aspect of any subsequent early market engagement exercise or procurement process.

The purpose of any early market engagement would be to receive market feedback that may be used to assist Transport for London in understanding the current supply market and to help scope and structure their respective requirements for the procurement of Taxi and Private Hire Disclosure Barring Service Checks.