10 Frequently Asked Questions About DBS Checks
- What does DBS mean?
DBS stands for the Disclosure and Barring Service. It’s the new version of CRB (Criminal Records Bureau Checks) and they screen people’s background criminal record to ensure that the person is trustworthy to work in a job role. Most employers conduct these checks as part of the recruitment process, so they can decide who to hire.
2. Why are DBS Checks carried out?
A DBS Check will look at a person’s criminal record and will report, if they have a criminal conviction, caution, reprimand, or warning. There are various levels of DBS checks, from Basic, up to Enhanced with Barred Lists. Depending on what job a person will be doing, will determine which level DBS check they require. If a person will be working with children or vulnerable adults, the more rigorous the DBS Check will be to ensure they are safeguarded. In the UK it is a legal requirement for people who work or volunteer with children or adults, to have a DBS Check.
3. What is a Basic DBS Check?
This, as its name suggests is the most basic level of check. You can apply for this type of check yourself, for any reason. You don’t have to have an employer or employment agency request this on your behalf.
4. What is a Standard DBS Check?
A Standard DBS Check is more in-depth and will check a person’s past criminal record to see if they have any spent or unspent convictions, reprimands, or warnings. It is only and employer who can ask for this type of check.
5. What is an Enhanced DBS Check?
This is the most detailed level of DBS, information from local police forces will be collated too, and if someone will be working in regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults, then the relevant barred lists will be checked. This type of check needs to be requested by an employer or agency.
6. Typically, how long to DBS Checks Take to Arrive?
This depends on many variables. It can depend on what level of check you require; your address history (if you’ve moved a lot, in the past 5 years, it will take longer to contact all the relevant police forces). It may depend on if all the information was provided on the application. It can depend upon which area of the country you live in, and whether they have a huge amount of DBS requests or staff shortages. For most checks you will get them within 10 working days.
7. Do Businesses Have to Get Their Employees DBS Checked?
DBS Checks are not required by law for all businesses, with the exception of when people will be working with children or vulnerable adults. Many businesses though do request DBS Checks for their employees, and it’s a good idea as part of the recruitment process, to ensure that they are trustworthy and risk-free to the business. Often governing bodies such as OFSTED and CQC state employers must DBS Check their employees. Other people working in professional roles, such as accountants, lawyers, and vets, also need DBS Checks. Having DBS Checks can ensure that you hire relevant people to care for children, or the elderly, and that staff will handle other people’s money responsibly, or take care of their pets.
8. What Type of Crimes Show up on a DBS Check?
Common Assaults
Motoring Offences
Drug Offences
Theft
Drunk and Disorderly Behaviour
Violent Crime
Safeguarding Offences
Sexual Offences
9. Do DBS Checks Run Out?
DBS Checks don’t have an expiry date; but they are based on a specific job role that you apply for. So, if you’re applying for a different job that has different responsibilities, even if it’s in the same organization you may need a different level DBS Check for that. Some businesses renew their employees DBS Checks every three years.
10. How Can I Get a DBS Check?
If you’re an individual and want a Basic DBS Check you can request this yourself and apply online. If you need a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check, then an employer or agency will have to apply for this on your behalf. You can complete the application online, and this is the easiest and most efficient way.
