What is DBS Check?
A criminal record check carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service, required for anyone working with children in the UK.
In Detail
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a background screening process that searches police records and, in some cases, barred list information to help employers make safer recruitment decisions. For children's activity providers, an Enhanced DBS check with a barred list check is the standard requirement for any role involving regular, unsupervised contact with children.
There are three levels of DBS check: Basic (shows unspent convictions only), Standard (shows spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings), and Enhanced (includes all of the above plus any relevant information held by local police). The Enhanced check with barred list is the level required for most roles in children's activities, including teachers, coaches, and assistants.
DBS checks do not expire, but they only show a snapshot at the time of issue. Most governing bodies and insurers recommend renewing checks every three years. The DBS Update Service allows individuals to keep their certificate current for an annual fee of thirteen pounds, making it portable between employers. As a business owner, you must keep a single central record (SCR) of all DBS checks for your staff and volunteers.
Related Terms
Enhanced DBS
The highest level of DBS check, required for roles with regular unsupervised access to children, including barred list checks.
Read moreDisclosure and Barring Service
The government body responsible for processing criminal record checks and maintaining the children's and adults' barred lists in England and Wales.
Read moreSafeguarding
The actions taken to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm, a legal duty for all children's activity providers.
Read moreSafeguarding Lead (DSL)
The designated person responsible for managing safeguarding concerns and acting as the main point of contact for child protection matters within an organisation.
Read moreSingle Central Record
A register that records the recruitment and vetting checks carried out on all staff, including DBS checks, qualifications, and right to work status.
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