DBS Check FAQ Videos – page 5

Is CRB the same as Right to Work checks?

No, Right to Work Checks are about establishing whether someone is in the UK legally, and has the right to work here. This is a standard check for all jobs, even those which don’t require a DBS check.

How do I monitor the progress of my DBS check?

If you submit your application online, you’ll be given a reference number which you can use to log in and see where in the system your application is. This should give some indication about timescales.

Do volunteers need a CRB or DBS check?

If people are carrying out work which falls under the remit of regulated activity, then they will need a criminal record check whether or not they are being paid.

Can I refuse to apply for a DBS check?

You are within your rights to refuse to apply for a DBS check, but of course an employer is within their rights to refuse to employ you without one.

What does a child mean in terms of CRB checks?

The Disclosure and Barring Service defines a “child” as anyone under the age of 18, irrespective of their educational or employment status.

What is the PNC?

In terms of criminal records checking, the PNC is the police national computer. This is the central database where all forces store information about convictions and cautions.

Can I apply for a CRB check or DBS check from overseas?

Yes, you can apply for a UK criminal records check from anywhere in the world. You might also need a local check depending on the job however.

What is an Umbrella Body?

An umbrella body is an organisation approved by the DBS to process criminal records checks. They have the expertise to check applications, and can offer expert advice to applicants.

Do self-employed people need a DBS or CRB check?

As individuals, self-employed people can only apply for a basic DBS check. But in some situations they might be able to apply through a further organisation for a more detailed check.

Is there a maximum age for a DBS check?

There is no upper limit for a criminal records check, and the process is identical whatever the age of the applicant.

Who is a vulnerable adult in terms of DBS rules?

An adult is vulnerable when they are a patient in hospital, being cared for at home, under the care of social work, or needs help in managing their own affairs.

What is Disclosure Scotland?

Disclosure Scotland is the official government body which manages criminal records checks in Scotland. Their scheme is known as Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG).

What is a reprimand?

A reprimand is the same as a caution, but given in England and Wales to someone under the age of 18. In nearly all cases, these will be left off any future criminal record check.

What is a caution?

A caution is a formal police warning about future behaviour, which is used when guilt is admitted. It is an alternative to going to court and trial. Cautions will appear on DBS certificates until they are spent.

What happens after I submit my form?

The DBS will check the information you have provided for accuracy and completeness, and then pass it to Police services around the UK for checking against their records.

What does filtering mean in relation to CRB checks?

Filtering is the process which the police use when deciding what information to include on a certificate. In general, they will choose to filter out older, irrelevant information in favour of giving the candidate a better chance of employment.

Will parking tickets appear on my criminal record?

Most driving offences won’t appear on a DBS check. Speeding, parking offences or driving without a seat belt are dealt with by fixed penalty fines, and won’t appear on a criminal record.

Why was my DBS check rejected?

The Disclosure and Barring Service will reject applications with basic errors in the name and address fields. If your form is rejected for this reason, you’ll have to start the process from scratch.

Do I need a National Insurance number to apply for a DBS check?

No, the two systems operate independently, and you don’t need a National Insurance number to get a check. However, your employer will ask you to go through the process of getting a number separately.

Can I provide online statements as proof of ID for a CRB or DBS check?

DBS wants to see originals of bank statements, and credit card statements. If you manage your accounts online, you might have to contact your providers and ask for hard copies in the post.