Several checks need to be taken when hiring someone. In addition to their work history and identification, it is also essential to carry out a DBS Check. Sometimes referred to as a criminal records check, a DBS Check will detail a person's criminal history.
The level of detail shown will depend on the type of DBS requested. The following is an overview of the options available and who can order a DBS Disclosure.
Different Levels of DBS Checks
Knowing who can request a DBS Disclosure depends on the level of check required. A Basic DBS can be requested by individuals and businesses, whereas Standard and Enhanced options can only be given to companies hiring individuals for a specific role.
Basic DBS Check
A Basic DBS Check is the lowest level of criminal record check and shows unspent convictions and cautions. Many companies use a Basic DBS Check as part of their hiring process.
Standard DBS Check
A Standard DBS Check contains more information, including spent convictions and warnings held on the Police National Computer. These types of criminal record checks can only be requested by a company or organisation and are often used for authoritative and managerial roles. However, they can be used in many industries if the position requires it.
Enhanced DBS Check
An Enhanced DBS Check is the highest level of disclosure and will be used for businesses that work with children and vulnerable adults. There can be several roles when an Enhanced DBS Check is required, including those applying for doctors, nurses, teachers and childminders positions.
Ensuring DBS Disclosures Are Processed Legally
Some businesses and organisations may assume that a background check can be automatically carried out because a person has given their details, but this isn’t the case. Regardless of the type of background check being carried out, businesses and organisations must obtain permission beforehand.
Many businesses include background checks in their application process, and companies with strict policies in place can avoid the potential ramifications of breaching data protection.
Any business can carry out a DBS Check as long as it is essential for the applied role. Obtaining DBS Checks for any other reason is a criminal offence because of the sensitive nature of the information contained on a certificate.
An External Agency Can Streamline the DBS Check Process
Although applying for a DBS Check can seem straightforward, there can be times when businesses need clarification on which is the best DBS Check for them. Furthermore, many companies do not want to wait several weeks to offer someone a position because a completed certificate has not been received.
Businesses that use an external background check agency can be confident of receiving the results of a DBS Check in as little as one hour while having access to all completed certificates in a secure cloud location.
