ACCESS NI

Paddle Northern Ireland is a registered body with AccessNI, this allows us to process Enhanced Disclosure checks for member clubs and centres in NI.


Paddle Northern Ireland is committed to ensuring that all employers, including providers, clubs and organisations carry out an enhanced disclosure check on any paddlesport related personnel working or volunteering with children, young people or vulnerable adults in regulated activity. The applicant/volunteer engaging in Regulated Activity must complete an Enhanced Disclosure Vetting Check prior to confirmation in the role.


Please see below a step-by-step guide on submitting an application and links to all relevant policies. Please ensure you have read and understand the relevant AccessNI and Paddle Northern Ireland policies at the bottom of this page.


Important Update: AccessNI Enhanced Checks Now Require LOA2 Accounts


From 1st April 2025, anyone applying for an Enhanced AccessNI check must have a LOA2-verified NIDA account on NI Direct. This is part of a national move to strengthen identity verification for safeguarding purposes.

What you need to do:


✅ Already have an NI Direct account? Log in and follow the prompts to upgrade your account to LOA2. You’ll need to complete an identity check using official documents.


✅ New to NI Direct? During registration, you’ll be guided through the steps to create a LOA2-level account—no extra action needed once your identity is verified.


Why it matters:

  • You won’t be able to apply for an Enhanced check unless your account is LOA2-verified.
  • This applies to all staff and volunteers involved in regulated activity, including those working with children or vulnerable adults at sporting events.


Need help? Visit nidirect.gov.uk/accessni for guidance and support.


STEP 1 Complete your Access NI Online Application


Log into your NI Direct Account (NIDA) nidirect to apply online for an enhanced check.  See above for information on NIDA accounts.


To complete the online application, you will need:


  • National Insurance Number (if you have one)
  • Driving Licence (if you have one)
  • Passport (if you have one)
  • The addresses you have lived at in the last five years (along with corresponding dates)
  • Two identity documents to be uploaded to the application
  • Paddle Northern Ireland specific PIN number – 189142


After submitting your application you will receive a unique 10 digit Access NI reference number - you will need this to complete Step 2


Information for applicants completing an Enhanced Application


AccessNI Online Application


STEP 2 Submit your PIN Notification and ID Documentation Form


PIN Notification + ID Documentation Form


  • Download and print the PIN Notification and ID Documentation Form using the link above.


  • Applicants - please fill in the sections on Page 1 and top of Page 2 and bring the form and your uploaded ID documents to your club Safeguarding Officer or Club Chair for verification.



ℹ️ You do not need to send ID documents to Paddle NI—just the completed form.


❗ Please note: AccessNI checks will not be processed until we receive the PIN Notification + ID Documentation Form


⏳ Applications not completed within 90 days will be deleted from the AccessNI system. You’ll then need to start the process again.


AccessNI and Paddle Northern Ireland Policies


Click the download button to read the CPSU Guidance for the Sports Sector on AccessNI

Paddle Northern Ireland adhere to the Access NI Code of Practice a copy of which is available at the following link. Access NI Code of Practice


Paddle Northern Ireland have a policy on the recruitment of ex-offender a copy of which is available at the following link. Recruitment of Ex-Offenders


Paddle Northern Ireland have a policy on secure handling, use, storage and retention of disclosure information.


Code of Practice on the Secure Handling, Use, Storage & Retention of Disclosure Information