DBS Checks
Getting a DBS Check in the UK
National Screening Agency are registered as a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) Umbrella body and we can process every level of check: Basic DBS Checks, Standard DBS Checks, and Enhanced DBS Checks.
Understanding what type of check is needed can be a confusing and time consuming if you are not currently performing them. We have a team of specialists that can help you understand any requirements and procedures you need to follow.
DBS checks (Criminal Records Disclosure Checks) are essential for roles that involve working with vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. These checks help identify any history of criminal behaviour that might pose a risk to these vulnerable groups.
Get DBS checks for your workforce or applicants.
With our background screening software it’s quick and easy to prepare candidates for screening, select from the variety of checks available, and monitor each candidate’s screening progress as we complete it.
To learn more about how our screening services can help your organisation, or to book a demo, please get in touch.
Types of DBS check.
Basic DBS
A Basic Disclosure report shows all convictions held at national level which are not spent.
Standard DBS
A Standard disclosure report shows details of any unspent convictions, and also spent criminal convictions or conditional cautions held on record.
Enhanced DBS
The Enhanced Disclosure report, similar to a Standard Disclosure, will show details of any spent and unspent criminal convictions, cautions and reprimands as well as any information held on police force databases.
The three levels of DBS check that you can take.
Basic Disclosure
Available for individuals who can choose to show it to employers (or anyone else). A Basic DBS check report shows all convictions held at national level which are not ‘spent’ under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. This is the most common check.
Who should do Basic Disclosure?
The basic check can be used for any position or purpose. A basic certificate will contain details of convictions and cautions from the Police National Computer (PNC) that are unspent under the terms of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.
Standard Disclosure
The standard DBS check shows both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings. Whereas the Basic Disclosure only shows unspent convictions, the Standard DBS check also shows spent convictions along with any cautions, reprimands, and final warnings.
Who should undertake a Standard Disclosure?
The standard check is available for duties, positions and licences included in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, for example, court officers, employment within a prison, and Security Industry Authority (SIA) licences.
Enhanced Disclosure
An enhanced level certificate contains the same PNC information as the standard level certificate but also includes a check of information held by police forces.
Who should unertake an Enhanced DBS Check?
This type of check is usually required in situations where the applicant is applying for a position involving regular care, training, supervision or being in sole charge of young people and/or vulnerable adults. It can also be required for certain statutory licensing purposes (SIA). This report contains similar information to the Standard Disclosure report and will also include local police records, such as relevant non-conviction information.
If the role will also include Regulated Activity, then it may be appropriate to include an application for a search of the barred lists to see if the applicant is barred from undertaking a certain role. Please contact us before you place an order to check eligibility otherwise your order will proceed without the barred lists.
For further guidance on which type of check is right for you, please call us or visit https://www.gov.uk/find-out-dbs-check
The specific details included in a DBS check can vary based on the individual’s criminal history and the requirements of the position for which the check is being conducted. It’s important to note that individuals have the right to request their own DBS check to review their criminal record and ensure its accuracy.