DBS Check FAQ Videos – page 3

What is a Barred List?

Also known as List 99, this is the list of people who are formally blocked from working with specific groups. Enhanced disclosures will usually involve a search of this list.

What happens with CRB and DBS checks in Northern Ireland?

In Northern Ireland, the criminal records check system is run by AccessNI, and provides broadly the same level of information to employers and individuals.

What happens to my certificate when it arrives?

Your certificate will be sent to your home address. After you have shown it to your employer, they will usually return it to you, after taking a note of the number.

What happens if I can’t supply the right identity documents for a CRB or DBS check?

There are many different combinations of documents which you can use for a check. If you don’t have identity documents in your own name, speak to the DBS for advice first.

What does unspent mean?

Under rehabilitation law in all parts of the UK, crimes and convictions drop off the end of your criminal record after a set period. An unspent conviction hasn’t reached that stage yet.

What does CRB stand for?

CRB stands for Criminal Records Bureau. This organisation has been replaced by the Disclosure and Barring Service in England and Wales.

What does a Standard DBS certificate show?

A standard DBS certificate will include all current convictions and cautions, plus any older conviction information which the Police feel is relevant to the application.

What documents do I need to apply for a criminal records check?

Part of the process involves checking the identity of the person making the application, so you’ll need key documents such as passport, driving licence, utility bills or credit card statements.

When does my CRB or DBS Certificate Expire?

There is no expiry date printed on a DBS certificate. Employers have to make their own decisions about how often they want to repeat tests on workers, based on their own safeguarding policies.

How long does it take for a conviction to be spent?

It all depends on the sentence, and the age of the person involved. Some of the most serious crimes will never be spent. Look on an online calculator if you think it might affect you.

Who can help me with my DBS or CRB application?

Your employer should be able to help with your DBS application, but the DBS can also respond to queries by either email or phone, during standard office hours.

Which names should I give on a DBS check?

In order to search effectively, the DBS will need all previous names, whether given names or surnames.

Which jobs need a DBS check?

The jobs which require a DBS check are called regulated activity. There is lots of information online about which jobs need a DBS check. As a general rule, these are jobs in childcare, education and healthcare.

Why do I need a DBS or CRB check?

Not every job needs a DBS check. In some occupations, such as working with children or in healthcare, your employer needs to check your background by law.

What will a DBS check show?

The level of detail shown on a DBS certificate will depend on the type of check. There are three levels of check, Basic, Enhanced and Standard.

What will a Basic DBS certificate show?

A basic DBS check is the least detailed check. The certificate will show the applicant’s unspent record only, both convictions and cautions.

What is shown on an Enhanced DBS Certificate?

The most detailed DBS check is an enhanced certificate. This will show current convictions and cautions, older information if relevant, and also any relevant intelligence held on the police computer.

What is DBS Update?

Update is a subscription service offered by the Disclosure and Barring Service which gives you real-time access to your disclosure information using an online database.

What is a DBS certificate?

The certificate is the end of the DBS process, and is a physical piece of paper sent out in the post to the applicant, not their employer.

What is a CRB Check?

A CRB check is a type of background check run in the United Kingdom, which looks into an individual’s criminal record, or other police intelligence.