Background checks have become an essential part of many industries, and it is understandable why some can be confused by the different options. A Police Check is something that many people have heard of, but they may need clarification on what the process involves.
The following looks at the different iterations of Police Checks and the reasons why they are requested.
What Is a Police Check?
Police Checks cause confusion because the term can be used for several types of checks. The following is an overview of the different background checks used when checking for criminal convictions and instances when they are used.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Checks
DBS Checks contain details of spent and unspent convictions, depending on the type of check carried out. They can also be called Police Checks as some certificates will include details held on the Police National Computer.
However, these types of checks are not carried out by the police but by the Disclosure and Barring Service. Individuals can request them on Basic DBS Check, but a company or organisation can only request Standard and Enhanced Disclosures.
ACRO Check
An ACRO Check contains similar details to DBS Checks but is carried out by the police. Whereas DBS Checks are requested for job applicants and volunteers in the United Kingdom, ACRO Checks are prepared for those working or living abroad.
An ACRO Check is also referred to as a police check because it is the police who carry out the request.
Police National Computer (PNC) Check
Although details held on the Police National Computer can appear on a DBS Check, a PNC Check is carried out by the police and is reserved for Government organisations. As such, all organisations cannot request PNC Checks, so they are less common than other checks. Those wishing to view their own information can do so via subject access request.
How to Request a Police Check
Requesting a Police Check will depend on the type of request being carried out. Those requiring a certificate for moving or working abroad can make an application using the Police Certificate Application Form.
Businesses wishing to request a DBS Check will need to obtain permission from the individual and then make a request to the Disclose and Barring Service. The time it takes to complete either can depend on several factors, but there can be instances when reiving a final certificate can take several weeks.
Some steps can be taken to ensure the process isn't delayed, such as capturing the correct details and identification in the first instance. However, those wishing to further streamline their Police Check process will employ the services of an external agency.
In most instances, an external background check company can provide digital results in as little as one hour and still provide a hard copy of the certificate, allowing positions to be filled much faster.
Businesses can also view completed certificates in a secure cloud environment with a few clicks, allowing for proactive administration and management of background checks.
