DBS Checks

If your organisation is a Regulated Activity provider, the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 requires you to ensure all staff working within a regulated activity have been adequetely checked by means of Enhanced DBS checks with relevant barred list checks. If your organisation has a regulating body, they may have further guidance/policies on DBS checking. SAFEcic advises DBS checks are conducted on all eligible staff and volunteers within your organisation.

 

To be eligible for a standard DBS check, the position must be specified in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) order 1975.

For an enhanced DBS check, the position must be listed in both the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) order 1975 and the Police Act 1997. 

To be eligible for a DBS Barred List check, the position must meet the definition of 'Regulated Activity' as outlined by the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (as amended).

 There are three types of DBS check available, SAFEcic recommends that organisations always request the highest level of check that they are entitled to:

 

Standard DBS checks: These checks show criminal record information only (i.e. convictions, cautions, etc.) These checks are usually suitable for certain positions such as security or certain financial posts.

 

Enhanced DBS checks: These checks show record information and may also include police information. These checks are usually suitable for positions that involve volunteering or working with children and/or vulnerable adults on a regular basis.

 

Enhanced DBS checks with Barred List checks: These checks show checking criminal record in formation, and may show extra information included by the police and DBS Barred List information. These checks are suitable for any position that involves 'regulated activity'.*

 

The definition of a child or young person is any person that has not yet reached their eighteenth birthday. In certain limited circumstances it can include people up to the age of twenty-one.

The definition of an adult at risk (vulnerable adult)  is more complex. The government guidance is available here and includes any person 18 years and over in receipt of any form of health care.

If you are not sure which DBS checks apply, please contact our friendly DBS team on 01379 871091 or by email at dbs@safecic.co.uk for further information.

Please note that self employed people and inviduals cannot DBS check themselves. If you are self employed/an individual and believe you need a DBS check, please contact us for further information.

Return to "What does my organisation need?"

Go to DBS pricing.