AccessNI registered bodies - signatories
Only approved signatories are authorised to manage the registered body’s disclosure process. They make sure the applicant’s identity is checked and approve their application before it is submitted to AccessNI.
Lead signatory in a registered body
As part of the registration process, the organisation must appoint a lead signatory. The lead signatory must:
- be over 18 years old
- never have been removed from the AccessNI register
- be checked for any criminal records
If you don't meet these conditions, AccessNI can refuse to register you or allow you to become a lead signatory. AccessNI will ask the registered body to put forward another person.
Once registered, the lead signatory will get a six digit personal identification number (PIN) for processing online applications. They can also appoint counter signatories to manage applications for the registered body.
Counter signatory in a registered body
AccessNI checks a counter signatory for criminal records before they can manage applications. If a counter signatory is unsuitable, AccessNI won't register them and will ask the registered body to put forward another person.
It costs £13.00 to register each counter signatory. AccessNI will send an invoice for this amount to the registered body.
Apply to become a counter signatory
You must be invited by an AccessNI-registered body to become a counter signatory. The lead signatory for the registered body will give you their six digit personal identification number (PIN). You need this PIN to apply online.
You'll also need to create a unique account with nidirect. You shouldn't use an existing nidirect account to complete the counter signatory application.
Personal identification number (PIN)
Once AccessNI approves your application to become a counter signatory, they'll give you a unique PIN. This PIN identifies that you are authorised to check and approve AccessNI applications for a particular registered body.
You'll need to give this PIN to people applying online for a standard or enhanced check through your registered body.