When applying for certain job positions in the UK, you may encounter a requirement for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Formerly known as a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check, a DBS check is a crucial aspect of the recruitment process for various industries.
But what exactly is a DBS check, and which job sectors typically necessitate it? This blog will explain all you need to know about DBS checks and which industries require them.
Understanding DBS Checks
Before delving into the industries that require DBS checks, let’s clarify what a DBS check entails. A DBS check is a background screening process conducted by the Disclosure and Barring Service, a non-departmental public body in the UK. Its purpose is to provide information about an individual’s criminal history or lack thereof, helping employers make informed decisions regarding recruitment or ongoing employment.
There are three levels of DBS checks:
- Basic DBS Check: Provides details of any unspent convictions or conditional cautions an individual may have. It is available to anyone, regardless of their occupation.
- Standard DBS Check: This check reveals both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings.
- Enhanced DBS Check: This is the most comprehensive level of check. It includes the same information as the standard check but may also involve local police checks to disclose any additional relevant information.
Industries that Require DBS Checks
Below lists some of the key industries where obtaining a DBS check is commonly a necessity:
- Healthcare and Social Care: Professionals working in healthcare settings, such as doctors, nurses, and care assistants, often require enhanced DBS checks due to the nature of their work involving vulnerable individuals.
- Education: Teachers, teaching assistants, and other staff working in schools, colleges, or childcare settings are typically required to undergo enhanced DBS checks to ensure the safety of children and young people.
- Childcare Services: Individuals working in roles such as childminders, nursery workers, and youth workers are subject to enhanced DBS checks to safeguard children and ensure their wellbeing.
- Financial Services: Certain roles within the financial sector, particularly those dealing with sensitive financial information or vulnerable clients, may necessitate standard or enhanced DBS checks.
- Security and Law Enforcement: Professionals working in security, such as security guards or personnel in private security firms, as well as those in law enforcement, require DBS checks to ensure their suitability for such roles.
- Voluntary Sector: Many voluntary sector organisations, including charities and community groups, may require volunteers or employees to undergo DBS checks, especially if they involve working with vulnerable individuals or children.
- Regulated Activities: Any role that involves regulated activities with children or vulnerable adults, such as fostering or adoption, requires enhanced DBS checks to assess the applicant’s suitability.
So, a DBS check is a vital tool used by employers across various industries to assess an individual’s suitability for certain roles, particularly those involving work with vulnerable groups or positions of trust.
Understanding the different levels of DBS checks and the industries that typically require them is essential for job seekers and employers alike. By ensuring compliance with DBS requirements, organisations can uphold their commitment to safeguarding and promoting safety and security in the workplace.
eSafeguarding can help you
eSafeguarding has the expertise and resources to support you when trying to obtain a DBS check for your next role.
Get in touch today and a member of the team will be on hand to get back to you as soon as possible.