The Complete Guide to DBS Checks: From Basic to Enhanced, Online, and Beyond

What Is A DBS Check?

At its core, a DBS check is a process to reveal a person's past, precisely to ascertain whether any criminal records are relevant to the role they seek.

This safeguarding tool is vital across professions where trust and security are paramount, especially when the work involves vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly.

DBS checks ensure that employees or volunteers do not pose a risk to those they are responsible for. Requiring DBS checks also safeguards employers against potential liability claims as they demonstrate reasonable measures were taken to ensure the safety of their clients.

Types of DBS Checks

There isn't just one type of DBS check. There are three levels: basic, standard, and enhanced.

Let's explore these in more detail:

• Basic DBS Check: The basic DBS check is the simplest form available and will disclose any unspent convictions a person holds. Generally, it’s required for roles that don't involve working closely with children or vulnerable adults but where a basic level of trust needs to be established.
• Standard DBS Check: More thorough than the basic, the standard DBS check covers both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings. This level is typically necessary for professionals in law, accountancy, or those in positions of trust.
• Enhanced DBS Check: The most detailed form, an enhanced DBS check, is designed for individuals whose work involves caring for, training, supervising, or being in sole charge of children or vulnerable adults. It includes everything in the standard check plus any additional information held by local police that’s considered relevant to the role.

Who Requires DBS Checks?

Roles that require DBS checks range widely from teachers and medical professionals to those in the judiciary and volunteers at local community centres.

Employers in these sectors are not only advised but often legally obligated to ensure that their staff have undergone the appropriate DBS checks to maintain a safe environment for all.

Certain professional bodies also require DBS checks as part of their registration process. For example, the General Medical Council (GMC) requires all doctors to undergo an enhanced DBS check before practising in the UK.

Whether an employer or individual requires a DBS check depends on the specific role and its level of responsibility. It’s important to note that employers cannot request a DBS check unless it is legally required for the position.

The DBS Check Process

Going through the DBS check process involves several steps, including:

1. Application – The employer or individual must apply for a DBS check through the government's online system.
2. Verification of identity – The applicant must be verified before the application is processed to ensure they are who they claim to be.
3. Review and approval – The DBS team reviews the application and accompanying documents for accuracy and completeness.
4. DBS check – A criminal record check is conducted, gathering information from local police databases and the Police National Computer (PNC).
5. Issue of certificate – Once the DBS check is complete, a certificate will be issued to the applicant's registered address.

Timeline for DBS Checks

"How long does a DBS check take?" is a common question.

Typically, a basic DBS check can be completed within days. However, in some cases, it can take up to two months. Various factors can influence these times. 

These factors include the level of check required, the accuracy and completeness of the application and supporting documents, and any delays in processing due to high demand or unforeseen circumstances.

How to Conduct DBS Checks Online

Using the Government Website

The government's official portal provides a process for those needing to complete a DBS check online. Applicants can fill out their forms digitally, upload necessary documentation, and track the status of their application—all from their computer or mobile device.

However, the government website may not be the most efficient option for employers or organisations needing multiple checks.

Using RefNow

As technology advances, the convenience and efficiency of conducting DBS checks are greatly enhanced.

RefNow is at the forefront of this evolution, integrating DBS checks into a platform that manages right-to-work verifications and reference checks. The process offers a unified, streamlined solution that simplifies the vetting process, making it faster and more accessible for everyone.

These key features make RefNow an attractive option for employers and organisations:

• Real-Time Tracking: RefNow revolutionises the DBS check process with its real-time tracking capability. Employers can monitor the progress of each check from initiation to completion through a clear, detailed timeline. This not only ensures transparency but also helps identify and address delays promptly.
• Fraud Detection: Employing advanced algorithms, RefNow identifies and flags potentially fraudulent references during the DBS check. This feature enhances the reliability of the hiring process, helping employers make informed decisions based on credible data.
• Customisable Question Profiles: RefNow allows employers to customise question profiles to cater to the specific needs of different roles. This can be particularly useful for roles that require enhanced DBS checks, as questions can be tailored to focus more deeply on areas relevant to positions involving vulnerable groups.
• Verification with LinkedIn and YOTI: RefNow’s partnerships with LinkedIn and YOTI for verifying references add an extra layer of authenticity to the information applicants provide. This is crucial for enhanced DBS checks, where verifying the candidate’s history with utmost accuracy is essential.

Conclusion

DBS checks play a pivotal role in safeguarding our society, ensuring that those in sensitive positions are properly vetted.

With advancements in digital solutions, obtaining a DBS check is becoming more efficient and user-friendly.

By embracing these online tools, employers and individuals can effortlessly ensure they meet legal and ethical standards, maintaining the trust and safety of all involved.