DBS checks are the most common form of background check carried out in the UK, and they’re a common requirement amongst employers.
Not all DBS checks are the same however; different industries often have different regulatory requirements, which require more or less in-depth checks. If you’re unaware of which type of check you require, contact a service such as Personnel Checks for impartial advice on what the right option is (so that you’re not having to needlessly purchase multiple checks).
In this article, we take a look at what the different check-types cover, and what kinds of jobs might require each different level!
What Is a DBS Check?
DBS stands for Disclosure and Barring Service, and it’s essentially a governmental agency run by the Home Office. The department is responsible for running checks across various different databases, to allow employers to make informed decisions on who they choose to hire.
Basic DBS Check
The basic DBS check is the lowest level check that you can have done in the UK. It’s a basic criminal record check, and involves checking an individual’s basic criminal history on the National Police Computer.
It’s a very common check that a wide variety of industries may require, from the hospitality industry to construction. It helps companies ensure that candidates have told the truth about prior criminal convictions, in turn ensuring that the workplace is a safe space for other employees. The basic check is also the only check that someone can request for themselves – all others need to be done through an employer.
Standard DBS Check
The standard DBS check is one step higher than the basic check. It’s an in depth criminal background search, and it doesn’t just check criminal convictions. It will bring up any prior warnings, cautions, or unspent convictions that an individual has, details which wouldn’t come up in the basic check.
The standard check is required by a variety of professions with a high professional standard and high levels of responsibility. These include lawyers and accountants, and it will ensure that candidates have no profession related prior offenses, such as fraud or data related convictions.
Enhanced DBS Check
The highest possible check is the enhanced DBS check. In addition to all the information provided by the standard check, it will also see if the individual is on the Children’s Barred List and, and it will carry out an Adult First check. This is to make sure that the individual doesn’t pose a high-level of risk to children or vulnerable adults.
The enhanced DBS check is a common requirement for teachers and healthcare professionals. Enhanced checks can’t be applied for by an individual – they can only be requested by employers, and even then, only if the role that’s being applied for is eligible.
Which One is Appropriate?
If you’re still unsure which test is required, it’s best to speak to an expert. Reach out to a professional service for peace of mind and to ensure that no steps in the process are missed. If you end up getting the wrong test, you may have to get another, which could lead to a wasted DBS check.
