People searching for a job will be familiar with background checks, as will businesses hiring new employees. However, there can be several types of background screening to consider. A DBS Checks details any criminal history of an applicant, but the details shown can depend on the role a person is applying for.
Although there are no legal requirements for DBS Checks to be carried out, there can be regulatory guidelines businesses and organisations must follow. As such, background checks are becoming commonplace, regardless of the roles applied.
The following is an overview of the different disclosure types available regarding background checks and their purpose when hiring an individual.
Basic DBS Check
A Basic DBS Check is the most common request regarding criminal history and can be used for a multitude of roles where the person has little responsibility or isn’t required to work with children or vulnerable adults.
Many businesses make a request for Basic DBS Check in conjunction with other checks. Basic DBS Checks only show unspent convictions. Those requiring more information may require a higher level of DBS Checks.
Standard DBS Checks
The type of DBS Check carried out isn’t limited to one industry. For example, some doctor positions may require a Standard DBS Check, while others require an Enhanced Disclosure. A Standard DBS Check will show details of spent and unspent convictions, plus any warnings or cautions received.
The type of roles that require a Standard DBS Check include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Solicitors
- Doctors
- Veterinarians
- Accountants
- Teachers
Enhanced DBS Check
An Enhanced DBS Check is the highest level of check available regarding a criminal background and is often used for roles like foster carers, childminders, police officers and social workers.
Although an Enhanced DBS Check will show the same information as a Standard disclosure, there will be additional information available not shown in other disclosures that is important for those fulfilling roles where the person is caring for someone vulnerable. This includes details recorded on the Police National Computer.
As DBS Checks can be requested easily, they are standard for many job roles, so those applying for any position can expect a DBS Check to be carried out.
Permission is needed before a background check is carried out. However, should a person refuse a DBS Check, the company has the right to withdraw a job offer, as they cannot make the necessary safeguards without a background check.
Why Agencies Are Recommended for DBS Checks
Although many businesses have the resources to make a DBS Check request, there can be instances where they are waiting as long as 14 days for a completed certificate. Those hiring several individuals can find the waiting time can affect the hiring process, which is why many outsource the role to a professional third party.
In addition to providing businesses with same-day results, companies using a professional background check agency can also be confident of faster processing time regarding paper certificates.
