What is a DBS check, and why is it important?

*please note, this blog is up to date as of 1st October 2026*

DBS stands for the Disclosure and Barring Service, and a DBS check is an official criminal record check that replaced the former CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check. It is a crucial background screening used by employers working with children and vulnerable adults, helping to identify individuals with certain criminal records and keep 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.

What is a DBS check?

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.

What are the four types of DBS checks?

There are four types of DBS checks, each providing a different level of information:

Who needs a DBS check?

A DBS check may be required for roles involving safeguarding, professional responsibilities or positions of trust, including:

• Education: To help protect children and meet safeguarding duties.

• Healthcare: To protect patients and other vulnerable people.

• Social work: To safeguard children and vulnerable adults.

• Foster care: To help ensure children are placed in safe environments.

• Financial and legal roles: For certain positions of trust and professional responsibility.

The level of DBS check required depends on the specific role and its eligibility criteria.

Do teachers need a DBS check?

Yes. Teachers will generally need an Enhanced DBS check because they work directly with children. Other school-based roles, including teaching assistants and support staff, may also require DBS checks depending on the role.

At Engage Education, we support candidates through the DBS and compliance process and can help you find your next education role.

By registering with our agency, you’ll not only keep your DBS certificate up to date effortlessly, but we’ll also help you find the perfect role quickly, so you can start new opportunities without delay.

What DBS do I need to work in schools?

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.

How long does an enhanced DBS take?

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.

Difference between child-only and child & adult DBS’

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.

What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service is an online subscription that allows you to keep your DBS certificate up to date.

With your consent, a new employer can check your DBS status online, meaning you may not need to apply for a new certificate when changing roles, provided your existing certificate is suitable for the new position and the employer accepts it.

Benefits of the DBS update service:

Convenience 

This speeds up the hiring or onboarding process, which allows you to start new roles fast, without waiting for a new DBS.

Cost saving

The DBS Update Service saves you money when changing jobs; no need to pay for a new DBS each time.

Enhanced safeguarding 

Schools can quickly and securely check if your DBS status has changed, making recruitment faster and simpler.

How long does a DBS check last?

A DBS certificate does not have an official expiry date. However, it only reflects the information available when the check was carried out.

If you’re registered with the DBS Update Service, an eligible employer may be able to check whether your certificate is still suitable for your new role.

Why is the DBS important?

It’s important for a candidate to have their DBS check ready to go for several reasons:

1. Speeding up the recruitment process

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.

2. Meeting employer expectations

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.

3. Avoiding delays in starting work

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.

4. Improving employability

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!