Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Checks

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) is the organisation responsible for processing criminal record checks in England and Wales. It was formed through the merger of the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). DBS checks help employers make safer recruitment decisions, particularly in roles involving vulnerable groups such as children and adults at risk.

Who Needs a DBS Check?

Employers are generally not permitted to ask about previous criminal convictions. However, certain roles and professions are exempt from this rule under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. DBS checks are required for many healthcare roles, including those in general practice, to ensure patient safety and regulatory compliance.

DBS checks are commonly required for:

• Healthcare professionals (including GPs, nurses, and healthcare assistants)
• Social workers and carers
• Teachers and education staff
• Foster carers and childminders
• Volunteers working with vulnerable individuals

Types of DBS Checks

There are three main levels of DBS checks, each providing different levels of detail:

1. Standard DBS Check (£26 – as of October 2013)

   • Includes details of spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings
   • Available only for roles listed under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975

2. Enhanced DBS Check (£44 – as of October 2013)

   • Includes the same information as the standard check
   • Also includes any additional information held by local police that is considered relevant to the role
   • Required for positions that fall under both the ROA Exceptions Order 1975 and the Police Act 1997 (Criminal Records) Regulations

3. Enhanced DBS Check with Barred Lists Check (£44 – as of October 2013)

   • Includes all the details of the enhanced check
   • Also checks against the DBS Barred Lists, which identify individuals legally prevented from working with children or vulnerable adults

How to Apply for a DBS Check

• Employers can apply for DBS checks on behalf of their staff.
• Individuals and self-employed professionals cannot apply directly but can use an umbrella body registered with the DBS.
• CQC-approved DBS checks can be applied for via approved providers.

DBS Update Service

DBS certificates do not have an automatic expiry date. It is up to individual employers to decide when a new check is required. However, the DBS Update Service allows individuals to keep their certificate up to date and enables employers to check an employee’s status online.

• Cost: £13 per year (as of October 2013)
• This service allows instant online checks without the need to apply for a new DBS certificate each time.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers must ensure that:

• The role being checked is eligible for a DBS check.
• The appropriate level of DBS check is requested.
• They comply with legal requirements when handling criminal record information.

The counter-signing officer submitting a DBS check is legally responsible for ensuring the role meets eligibility criteria. If you are unsure about eligibility, contact customerservices@dbs.gsi.gov.uk with the subject line: “Application Eligibility Enquiry – Urgent”.

For more information or to apply for a CQC-approved DBS check, visit the official DBS website or your organisation’s designated provider.