How can I find out about a criminal record?

[brionyw]

My none too bright friend thinks they may have a criminal record but are not sure (don't ask!) is there any way he can find out if he has?  There are websites that offer the service but they look dodgy and expensive!  Thank you, Bx

[Laura-sakura]

 

walk into a police station and ask?

[Miss Zippy]

They could get in touch with the Criminal Records Bureau - 0870 90 90 811 and ask for a disclosure report (they cost about �30).  The CRB was set up so employers and voluntary organisations etc can check whether potential employees/volunteers have a criminal record (some employers/organisations are obliged to obtain CRB reports where the work involves contact with children or vulnerable people), but I don't see why you couldn't get a report on yourself!  

[acw]

From the freedom of Information Act I'd have thought you shouldn't have to pay for information held by the state about yourself.  Therefore I agree with Laura - just tell him to walk into a police station WITH some formal ID on him, and ask!!

[miss_chase]

the freedom of information act means you can see any info on you but companies/organisations can charge you an admin fee for retrieving this info.

so the police might charge you �5 or �10 (might not) but i think it is a good place to start anyway.

[trekhi]

Really easy but takes about six to eight weeks. Just go on the web and you can download a form for CRB fill it in send your money off and wait.

www.crb.gov.uk

hope this helps

[brionyw]

Thank you guys... you've all been really helpful!

Bx

[willow74]

if you mate thinks its years old (more

thank 5) dont worry at all as the conviction

would have been 'spent' now. 

[Andy008]

You would only have a criminal record if you were charged with an offence, not cautioned.