Another record month for the thriving WSA DBS service

Another record month for the thriving WSA DBS service

September 2025 brought yet another milestone for the Welsh Sports Association’s (WSA) DBS checking service for sport and leisure, as a new record for checks conducted in a single month was set.

With just two days until the arrival of a new month, over 3,000 checks have been carried out through the WSA, surpassing the previous record of 2,969 a year prior.

This continues a positive trajectory for the service as it continues to contribute to a safe sector for all.

The financial year 2024 – 2025 also provided a milestone, with over 21,000 checks conducted – a record number over a 12-month period and the first time that 20,000 checks had been completed through the WSA.

WSA Business Manager and DBS Lead, Steffan Howells, commented: 

“It’s great for the service to have reached another milestone, not only showing its progression and success, but also ensuring that we continue to support organisations within the sector and beyond to keep people safe.

“Carrying out over 3,000 checks in September alone is testament to our commitment to safeguarding within the sport and leisure sector and across our wider membership.  

“Ensuring safe environments for people to participate and thrive has always been our top priority, and this achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of the whole team.” 

The WSA DBS service for sport and leisure

Learn more about the service here!

The service originally debuted in 2016, when the then-DBS service for sport and leisure was announced to cease.  

In response, the WSA then set up its own service, a white label solution utilising economies of scale to drive down costs, via Complete Background Screening (CBS) – an industry-leading DBS check and pre-employment screening company.  

Ever since, the WSA has been proud to provide a bilingual, cost-effective, efficient solution to a key part in the safeguarding journey of all clubs, facilities and organisations.  

It is also tested and approved by the Ministry of Justice and The Home Office and endorsed by both Welsh Government and the NSPCC.  

The WSA encourages all organisations across the UK to go through its DBS checking service, which boasts an administration fee of just £6.50 with members benefitting from discounted rates. All profits are also reinvested back into sport and leisure.  

Whether based in Wales or elsewhere, a sporting body or in another sector, the WSA DBS checking service is open for all to utilise.