If you are planning to work as a veterinary surgeon, you can expect to be asked to take a DBS check when you begin your training.
What is a DBS check?
A DBS check is a formal search for any criminal records that may make you unsuitable to work as a veterinary surgeon.
Once the search is complete you will be receive a certificate listing any records found. If no records are found the fields for each search will be blank.
You will need to show this certificate to your employer. The DBS certificate will be sent through the post and available online.
A DBS check for a veterinary surgeon is a standard DBS check which will involve a search for any unspent or spent convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings in existence on the Police National Computer.
Why is a DBS check necessary?
This level of background check for veterinary surgeons has been a statutory requirement since 1974 when the 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act came into effect.
Whilst working as a veterinary surgeon you will come into lots of contact with the public, some of whom will be children and vulnerable adults. Your CRB check is used to ensure your interactions with the public, particularly children and vulnerable adults, will be safe.
This safeguarding measure is in operation for a wide range of roles across the UK, with the statutory requirement for each position set out in the 1974 act. These safeguarding measures are legal duties every UK employer must abide by.
A standard DBS check for a veterinary surgeon is a mid-level check necessary because you will be operating in a position with a degree of influence where you are responsible for the welfare of animals and interact closely with the public.
To learn more about standard DBS checks and your legal rights visit: hub.unlock.org.uk/rehabilitationofoffendersact
