A DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) is a crucial background screening used by employers working with children and vulnerable adults. It helps ensure that individuals with certain criminal records are identified, keeping schools and other sensitive workplaces safe.
This blog explains what a DBS check is, who needs one, the different types available, and why having a DBS ready is essential for speeding up recruitment and starting work without delays.
A DBS is a background check used by employers that work with children and/or vulnerable adults. A DBS check is a record of a person’s criminal convictions and cautions, issued by the Disclosure and Barring Service. It helps employers assess a candidate’s suitability for certain types of work.
People working in:
An enhanced DBS Check reveals spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings, including relevant local police information. Unlike a basic DBS, which individuals can apply for themselves but isn’t accepted for school employment, an enhanced DBS must be processed by an employer, such as a school or agency.
The enhanced DBS check typically takes between 1 to 4 weeks to process, but it can sometimes take longer. Once the application is submitted, the process moves beyond the employer’s control and goes through several stages, meaning there is no fixed timeline. Because of this variability, we recommend candidates apply for their DBS check as early as possible to avoid delays and ensure they’re ready to start work without unnecessary waiting.
If a person is working solely with children (under 18), there is no need to check whether they are barred from working with adults. Conducting a broader check could inadvertently lead to discrimination in the hiring process. A child-only DBS keeps the focus on safeguarding children, while a child & adult DBS includes information that isn’t relevant to the school environment and could potentially complicate the process.
It’s important for a candidate to have their DBS check ready to go for several reasons:
Having an up-to-date DBS check ready can significantly speed up the hiring process. Employers can move forward with the offer and onboarding without waiting for the check to be completed, helping candidates secure a job faster.
Many employers expect candidates to already have a DBS check in place. Having one ready shows initiative and demonstrates that the candidate is prepared and proactive.
To work in schools, an individual cannot start working until the DBS check is completed. By having it ready, candidates avoid unnecessary delays and can begin their role as soon as possible.
Some roles may prioritise candidates who have already completed this process. Having a valid DBS check can give candidates an edge over others who may still be waiting for theirs to be processed.
Need help with your DBS check? We’re here to guide you through the process and make it as smooth as possible. Register with us today and let us support you at every step in finding your perfect role!
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