Getting a DBS check into your criminal record is a standard part of starting many jobs, but there is a restricted list of occupations which are eligible for a standard or enhanced DBS Check. Do hairdressers and salon staff qualify for this more in-depth checking?
Levels of DBS Checking
There are three different levels of disclosure check in the UK.
- Basic – a basic check will show any unspent convictions and cautions. Anyone over 16 can apply for a basic DBS check for any reason.
- Standard – a standard DBS will also show unspent convictions and cautions, as well as some spent convictions, reprimands and warnings. These are restricted and depend on the job you will be doing.
- Enhanced – an enhanced DBS has the same information as a standard, as well as any information the Police have which they think is relevant. These are also only available to specific groups.
Hairdressers and DBS Checks
Hairdressing is not defined as regulated activity, which is more concerned with training, teaching or providing personal care in a healthcare setting. Therefore, hairdressers can only ask for a basic DBS check, which will show their current criminal record only. This is also the case for hairdressers who specialise in cutting children’s hair. Most children who go to the hairdresser are accompanied by an adult, and even if they are not, the safeguarding responsibility lies with the parent rather than with the hairdresser or the salon owner.
Care Home Hairdressers and DBS Checks
Hairdressers who go into care homes and provide hairdressing for residents do not generally need a DBS check, but this will depend on what they are asked to help with. There is lots of confusion in this area as the law states that people who assist an adult with their skin, hair or nails does require an enhanced DBS check, but goes on to say that if the treatment is for cosmetic purposes, then an enhanced DBS check is not required.
There is also the “frequency” test on DBS checks for hairdressers. Similar to any other volunteers or workers, someone going into a care home fortnightly or less often than three times in a month does not need a DBS check. Someone who is going into the same care home every week or more often does need a DBS check. Companies running care homes should be aware of all of these restrictions and rules around employing staff, and it is their responsibility to make sure that staff and contractors are properly checked and cleared. It is the company which risks getting into trouble if things aren’t done correctly rather than the individual.
Getting Advice and Guidance
We appreciate that these legal distinctions are complex and can be confusing. Every situation is different and if there is any doubt at all over whether someone should have a DBS check and at which level, always get advice from an expert or contact the DBS helpline for guidance on your individual circumstances.
