Whether a person is applying for a role, or a business is creating an employment strategy, the subject of DBS Checks can be confusing at times. However, there are several factors to consider when carrying out background checks. Understanding how disclosures work makes the process easier for businesses and organisations.
DBS Checks Are Not a Legal Requirement
Many may assume that background checks are carried out due to legislation, but this isn’t the case. DBS Checks show a criminal background that allows businesses and organisations to make informed decisions when hiring new employees or volunteers.
Although DBS Checks are not a legal requirement, businesses and organisations can need them to conform with industry regulations. For example, those working with children will require a refreshed criminal record check every few months to ensure the company conforms to Ofsted regulations.
Are All DBS Checks the Same?
DBS Checks can be referred to by several names, including a criminal record check. However, there are three levels of DBS Checks to choose from, depending on the role a person will be carrying out.
Some jobs will ask a person for a Basic DBS Disclosure, which the individual or person can request. However, due to the sensitive nature of Standard and Enhanced DBS Disclosures, they can only be ordered by businesses or organisations.
Can a Person Refuse a DBS Check?
When carrying out DBS Checks, permission needs to be given by the person beforehand. As such, people can refuse a DBS Check. However, if the role requires background screening, then a company has no legal obligation to move forward with the job application.
How Often Should DBS Checks Be Refreshed?
Although DBS Checks are a standard part of a company’s recruitment process, the role could require several background checks throughout the year. How often a DBS Check is carried out can depend on the business or organisation, but employees should be aware of the frequency of background checks.
How to Manage DBS Checks?
Although some businesses may not mind waiting for a completed certificate, other companies may need to conduct background checks regularly. However, making requests regularly could mean that some companies must wait several weeks before making a hiring decision.
Fortunately, solutions are available that allow a business to make the most of its time. Using an external agency to process DBS Checks enable a company to make hiring decisions quickly and ensure secure access to digital results in the cloud.
Businesses and organisations can also be confident that completed physical certificates are received as soon as possible, allowing companies to maintain the highest level of background screening at all times.
Although background checks are not mandatory, businesses that don’t use them could find that their operations are affected in several ways. As such, having a strict policy and efficient method of processing multiple checks will ensure a business is in good standing regarding its customers and regulations.
