If you’re about to apply for a job, which has requested you undertake a DBS Check, you might be wondering what it is, why you need to participate and how to get a DBS Check?
Here’s a few answers to some questions you might have:
What is the DBS Check?
DBS stands for the Disclosure and Barring Service. The actual check is a vetting process which you are asked to agree to, in order to check you’re suitable to work with children, the elderly or vulnerable people or in certain other professions. It involves checking whether you have any convictions, causes, reprimands or warnings against your name.
Who needs a DBS Check?
Anyone who works with children, the elderly or vulnerable people will most probably need to undergo a DBS Check to ensure they are suitable for the role. Organisations can request their staff, volunteers or applicants undergo DBS Checks and different roles are eligible for different levels of checks. Individuals can, however, apply for a Basic Disclosure, which will only show unspent convictions, via Disclosure Scotland using a DBS company such as CRB Check Online.
Can you fail a DBS Check?
Despite what some people think, no it’s not possible to fail a DBS Check. It’s merely part of a vetting process to see if you’re suitable for a particular role working with children, the elderly or vulnerable people.
How to apply?
If you’re an employer you can get an application form by registering with an umbrella body, such as uCheck. The applicant must then fill in the form, providing all the necessary documentation.
What documents do I need?
In order to successfully complete your application you’ll need to have all the addresses you’ve resided at over the last five years and.
You’ll also need a copy of either your passport or birth certificate to verify you are who you say you are and a utility bill or bank statement, which will be used to confirm your current address.
The DBS provide useful guidelines as to what ID is required here.
How long does the process take?
It takes just five minutes to request a Disclosure with uCheck, which has been designed to be quick and simple. There’s no set time for the return of a check and it can largely depend on the information about the individual, but a criminal record check is normally completed in just under 48 hours.
If there is nothing significant to report on, the employer can download a notification and log into the system. If criminal activity has been detected, the certificate will be sent out via Royal Mail.
The applicant will always receive the Certificate, regardless of the result.
Although we provide an electronic notification, employers should always see the original Disclosure as good practice.
The Disclosure is sent directly from the DBS via Royal Mail, and the umbrella/registered body will never have access to criminal record information disclosed.
Be sure to get in touch with us if you have any further questions. You can apply for a number of DBS Checks through our simple online platform – most checks are completed within 48 hours. Get started now.
