Enhanced DBS Check
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) Enhanced Check is a comprehensive background screening process used primarily in the UK. It is designed to ensure that individuals working in certain roles, particularly those involving vulnerable groups such as children or adults, are suitable and do not pose a risk. The Enhanced Check provides detailed information, including:
DBS Enhanced Checks are a critical component in safeguarding vulnerable groups and ensuring that individuals in sensitive roles are thoroughly vetted. By integrating risk reduction strategies into your background check processes, you can enhance accuracy, comply with regulations, and build a robust framework for protecting both your clients and their interests.
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DBS Enhanced Checks: What You Need to KnowCriminal Record Details:: Criminal Record Details: Includes spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings.Barred List Information: : Checks whether the individual is on the barred lists maintained by the DBS, which are specifically for roles involving children or vulnerable adults.Dispute and Errors : Dispute: If an individual disputes the information on their DBS check or believes there is an error, they can request a review or challenge the data with the DBS.
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Legal ConsiderationsLegislation: The DBS checks are governed by the Police Act 1997, the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, and the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012.Data protection : The process is subject to data protection laws, ensuring that personal information is handled securely and used appropriately.Regulation : Helps organisations ensure that their employees or volunteers are suitable and safe to work with vulnerable populations.:
DBS Check Comparison
DBS Basic Check | DBS Standard Check | DBS Enhanced Check | |
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Purpose | Basic criminal record check | More detailed criminal record check | Comprehensive check with additional information |
Suitable For | General employment roles | Roles with greater responsibility or security | Roles involving children or vulnerable adults |
Criminal Record Details | Spent and unspent convictions | Spent and unspent convictions, cautions | Spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, warnings |
Barred Lists Check | Not included | Not included | Includes checks against barred lists for children and vulnerable adults |
Local Police Information | Not included | Not included | May include additional local police information relevant to the role |
Eligibility | Available to anyone | Requires a specific job role or sector | Requires a specific job role or sector, particularly in safeguarding roles |
Issuing Authority | Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) | Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) | Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) |
Typical Use | Basic employment screening | Roles with higher risk or security requirements | Roles involving direct contact with vulnerable groups or sensitive positions |
Processing Time | Generally quicker (usually a few days) | Longer than Basic but generally quicker than Enhanced (often a few weeks) | Longest processing time due to additional checks (can take several weeks) |
Legal Framework | Governed by the Police Act 1997 | Governed by the Police Act 1997 and the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 | Governed by the Police Act 1997, Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, and the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 |
Applicant’s Consent | Required | Required | Required |
Cost | Lower cost compared to Standard and Enhanced | Moderate cost, higher than Basic | Highest cost due to the extensive checks |
Appeal Process | Can be challenged if inaccurate or incomplete | Can be challenged if inaccurate or incomplete | Can be challenged if inaccurate or incomplete, with more complex procedures due to the additional information |