One of the most common problems in the criminal records checking system is working out who is eligible for checking, and what sort of checks are allowed. The different levels of DBS checks were brought in at the time when the system changed name. Applicants for jobs no longer apply for a CRB check but use the very similar application system for a DBS check instead. The eligibility criteria is strict, and that means that neither employers nor the people applying to work for them has the flexibility to choose what level of disclosure check people are allowed to have. If you’re one of the many people who are unsure about how the system works, then here is our simple guide to everything DBS related.
The Three Levels of DBS Checks
At present there are three levels of DBS checks offered in England and Wales. Separate systems are in place for people who will be working in Northern Ireland or Scotland. The three levels of DBS checks are:
- Basic Disclosure: For individuals, revealing unspent convictions only. This is the only level of check open to everyone.
- Standard DBS Check: For organisations making suitability decisions. This certificate includes cautions, warnings, reprimands, and convictions.
- Enhanced DBS Check: Similar to a Standard check but also includes checks on the Children's and/or Adult barred list, with potential additional information from local police.
Eligibility for a DBS Check
Although a Basic DBS Check has specific eligibility criteria and is open to anyone, there are restrictions imposed on other levels of check. For enhanced and standard DBS checks, the work being done will determine whether an enhanced or standard disclosure is appropriate. The legal term for this is “regulated activity” and lays out the responsibilities of roles which might qualify for these levels of checking. Employers should know the law as it applies to their workers, and it is their responsibility to apply for the right level of check for the people working for them.
Enhanced DBS Checks
Enhanced DBS checks are the most detailed level of checking, and the “gold standard” in criminal records checking. Many applicants want to have this level of check as they feel it will make them more attractive to employers, but as described above, enhanced disclosures only apply to specific types of work. In most cases, the enhanced DBS check involves working in close contact with people who are considered vulnerable. This could be children in a school or nursery, patients in a hospital, or elderly people in a care home or being looked after in their own home.
Changing Legislation
Although there have been no wholescale changes made to the DBS system since it was introduced, tweaks are made to the jobs falling into each category from time to time. These changes are well-documented on the DBS website, and it is the job of the employer to keep up to date with the requirements rather than the job applicant. Employers are usually happy to give advice and guidance to anyone having difficulties completing the application form.
