Frequently Asked Questions
There are a number of frequently asked questions regarding DBS Checks. To save you having to search through many sites trying to find the answers to your questions, we’ve collated some of the more commonly asked questions here.
What does a DBS Check Look For?
A DBS Check will look at your past criminal history. It then reports this on a DBS Certificate that is shared with prospective employers, so they can make an informed decision about whether you would be suitable for their job role. The DBS Check will show any previous criminal offences, and depending on what level of check is done, this may show unspent and spent convictions, cautions, reprimands, warnings, locally held police information relevant to the job, and whether your name appears on the Barred Lists for working with children, or vulnerable adults. Some crimes, such as terrorism, or crimes against children, will always show on your DBS Check, and will never clear. Some other crimes which are classed as ‘spent’ (after a maximum of 11 years) may not appear on Basic DBS Checks.
Are DBS Checks a Legal Requirement?
If you work in regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults it is a legal requirement to have an Enhanced DBS Check with Barred Lists.
Do I need to Renew my DBS Check?
There is no legal requirement to renew this. But, if you apply for a new job you are likely to need a new DBS Check. Some companies update their employee’s DBS Checks every 2-3 years. You can also use the DBS Update Service, which keeps your record updated with any new changes.
How do I Pass a DBS Check?
A DBS check is not something you pass or fail. It simply displays your past criminal history on a certificate. It is then up to your prospective employer if they think this information is relevant to the job role for which you have applied.
I’m self-employed do I need a DBS Check?
If you work alone, with no other employees you do not need a DBS Check. If you wish to show clients or customers you have one, you could apply for a Basic DBS Check. If you will be working in a school or hospital (with regulated activity) the organisation may need to request a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check on your behalf.
How do I Obtain a DBS Check?
You can apply online or via post, but it is advisable to apply online if possible. Your application is less likely to be lost or delayed in the post. The online system prompts you to fill in any blank spaces, which you may miss on a paper copy. If you have any queries, it is much easier for DBS to respond swiftly to an online application, rather than have to track down the paper copy.
How Long Does it Take for a DBS Certificate to Arrive?
Most checks will be completed within two weeks, but some can take longer. This depends on many variables, such as if the form was completely filled out, or if any information is lacking. Whether the person has a complicated address history, which can mean the check takes longer, because each local police force would need to be contacted for an Enhanced DBS Check. It may depend on the area the check is conducted, and whether they are inundated with checks, or have staff shortages. Checks can take up to 4-6 weeks, but most will be completed in this time.
What Documents do I Need for a DBS Check?
If it’s a Basic DBS Check, you will need one form of ID and a proof of address. If it is a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check, you will need a form of ID, plus two official documents, one of which needs to confirm your address.
What Levels of DBS Check Exist?
Three main levels: Basic; Standard and Enhanced. The is also Enhanced with Barred Lists. There is an Adult First check too, if someone wants to work with vulnerable adults, and they can be quickly checked that their name does not appear on the Barred Lists, and they can start work (supervised) until their Enhanced DBS with Barred List arrives.
Please contact us if you have other questions and our team will reply to you within a few hours.
