15th August 2023 6 MIN READ •ATS Integrations
If you’re working in the HR industry, you’ve likely come across the DBS checks at least once. But exactly what is a DBS check? Who actually needs one? And why are there three different kinds of DBS checks!? Stick with us, we’ll tell you everything you need to know…
What is a DBS check?
A DBS check is a pre-employment background check requested by employers on behalf of candidates and carried out by The Disclosure and Barring Service.
A DBS check provides employers with a detailed review of a candidate’s criminal history, helping employers determine whether applicants are eligible for their role or if they pose a risk.
There are three types of DBS checks:
- Basic DBS check
- Standard DBS check
- Enhanced DBS check
In the UK, DBS checks are required by law for particular roles, including for teachers and medical professionals. But there are additional roles that also require background screening that might surprise you…
What does DBS check stand for?
DBS is an abbreviation of Disclosure and Barring Service, the organisation responsible for processing and conducting DBS checks. Founded in 2012, the Disclosure and Barring Service operates online and issues DBS checks for England, Wales and The Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands.
What is a CRB check?
Before DBS checks, employers used CRB checks to gather and review information about a candidate’s criminal history, to determine their eligibility for a role. CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) checks were replaced by DBS checks in 2012 following the Protections of Freedom Act.
What are the different types of DBS checks?
There are four types of DBS checks employers can request, these include:
- Basic DBS check – The least detailed version of the DBS checks, the basic check shows employers a candidate’s criminal history
- Standard DBS check – More detailed than a basic DBS check, standard checks offer more insight into a candidate’s criminal background
- Enhanced DBS check – The most in-depth DBS check most employers can request, the enhanced DBS check is required for a number of high risk roles
- Enhanced DBS check with Barred List – An additional type of Enhanced DBS check, required for candidates looking for roles working with children or vulnerable adults
What is a basic DBS check?
A basic DBS check is the lowest level of DBS check available in the UK. Basic DBS checks aren’t required for any roles, but employers may ask candidates to conduct a basic DBS check before they join their organisation.
What does a Basic DBS check show?
A basic DBS check is an excellent tool for employers to identify an applicant’s suitability for a particular role. Employers utilising a basic DBS check can identify an individual’s previous criminal history, including any unspent criminal convictions or cautions.
Although not as detailed as standard or enhanced DBS background checks, basic DBS checks still enable employers to judge whether a candidate would be a risky hire or not.
What is a standard DBS check?
A standard DBS check is the first mandatory DBS check. Standard DBS checks, reviews and collects data on candidates’ unspent convictions and cautions. These checks are required for a number of roles, and provide employers with more information than Basic DBS checks.
What does a standard DBS check show?
A Standard DBS check will show candidates’ spent and unspent convictions, along with any cautions held on the Police National Computer.
Job roles that carry a high level of responsibility are often subjected to standard DBS checks. Candidates cannot apply for a Standard DBS check themselves, it is the employers responsibility to carry out the check. Following this check, employers can make a decision on a candidate’s suitability for a role.
There are many different positions that require a Standard DBS check. Some examples include:
- Locksmiths
- Security guards
- Veterinary surgeons
- Chartered accountants
- Barristers and solicitors
- Football stewards
What is an Enhanced DBS check?
An Enhanced DBS check is the next step up from a Standard DBS check, providing further insight into a candidate’s criminal history. This type of DBS check is only eligible for particular roles.
What does an Enhanced DBS check show?
Enhanced DBS checks provide the same information as Standard DBS checks, including any spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands. Enhanced DBS checks will also disclose any additional non-conviction information held on police records that is deemed relevant to the role.
There are many roles that need a DBS check. Enhanced DBS checks are required for roles that work with children, adults, or other high risk roles. Roles requiring an enhanced DBS check include:
- Care workers
- Teachers
- Health care professionals
- Foster carers
- Dentist
- Librarian
What is an Enhanced DBS check with Barred List?
A Enhanced DBS check with Barred list reveals the same information as a regular Enhanced DBS check, but will also check the Children’s Barred and Adults Barred lists. Candidates appearing on these lists will not be eligible for roles working with children or vulnerable adults.
Enhanced DBS checks with Barred Lists are required for certain roles, including those working in the NHS, care home, schools and social workers, and healthcare professionals.
What is a DBS certificate?
A DBS certificate is a physical document issued by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). The record contains information regarding an applicant’s criminal history, including any convictions or cautions a candidate may have.
The details on a DBS certificate vary depending on which type of DBS check employers request. Basic DBS checks will provide less information on a candidate’s criminal history than an enhanced DBS check.
What documents do you need for a DBS check?
To apply for a DBS check candidates will need to provide identification to prove they are who they say they are. The most common types of documents requested when applying for a DBS check are driving licences, passports, and bank statements.
How long does a DBS check last?
There is no exact expiry date on a DBS check. This is because DBS checks give a view of a candidate’s history. The moment a DBS check is conducted, it could be considered outdated.
If your candidate had a DBS check for their previous role, you will need to conduct another DBS check to ensure their criminal history hasn’t changed and that they are still eligible for your role.
How long does a DBS check take?
On average a DBS check will take 1-2 weeks to complete, however this will vary depending on which DBS check you are applying for. A basic DBS check can be as quick as 24-48 hours whereas a Standard DBS check will take up to 14 days. The longest DBS check is an Enhanced DBS check, which often takes 2-4 weeks to complete.
How much does a DBS check cost?
If you are hiring for a role that requires either a standard, enhanced or enhanced Barred list DBS check, you will be required to pay for each check. For basic DBS checks, employees can pay for their own checks.
Typically DBS checks will cost employers:
- Basic DBS check: £18
- Standard DBS check: £18
- Enhanced DBS check (excluding Barred List): £38
The cost per DBS check may differ depending on the background check provider you are using. If you conduct more than 1000 checks per year, you may be eligible for discounted checks.
How old do you have to be for a DBS check?
For a basic, standard or enhanced DBS check, candidates must be over the age of 16 before they can be asked to apply.
Can you appeal against a DBS check?
Yes, a candidate can dispute a DBS check if they spot a mistake on the check. If successful, a mistake within a DBS check can be changed. Candidates or employers will have three months to raise a dispute with the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Introducing…
Conduct DBS checks with Talos360
DBS checks are no longer ‘nice to have’; they’re essential. Not only as a tool to reduce hiring risk or keep your organisation safe but to remain compliant and within the law when hiring.
Thanks to our recent integration, it has never been easier to request, store and review DBS checks directly within our Applicant Tracking System, Talos ATS.
Without the need for multiple log-ins, employers can request DBS checks and make informed decisions all within one platform, reducing admin and getting candidates through the door quicker.
Ensure hiring safety and compliance with Talos360
