What is an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS Check is a type of criminal record check that shows any spent or unspent convictions, cautions, warnings or reprimands the applicant has – as well as any other relevant details held by the applicant’s local police force. An Enhanced Disclosure may also include a check of the children’s and/or adults’ barred list, if the applicant is eligible.
Who’s eligible for an Enhanced DBS Check?
To be eligible for an Enhanced DBS Check, the applicant’s role, profession or licence must be listed in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.If the applicant’s position doesn’t appear in this piece of legislation then this could mean:
- The application is unlikely to be eligible for any level of DBS Check, or
- You may need to view further legislation to establish whether an Enhanced Disclosure is required. Enhanced DBS Check eligibility is covered in the Police Act 1997 or the Police Act 1997 (Criminal Records) Regulations.
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What types of workplace will need Enhanced DBS Checks for their employees?
Eligibility for an Enhanced DBS Check may also be determined by the applicant’s place of work.
If the applicant works within one of the below establishments once a week, or three times within a 30-day period, they’ll require an Enhanced DBS Certificate.
- CQC registered care homes
- Schools or nurseries
- High security psychiatric hospitals
Some roles may also require the applicant to undergo a barred list check. This will be the case if the applicant engages in regulated activity with vulnerable adults and/or children – for example, by providing healthcare or personal care. Full definitions of regulated activity with adults and children are available on the DBS website.
How do I request an Enhanced DBS Check?
Requesting an Enhanced DBS Check online through our HR Platform is simple. The system allows the applicant to enter their own personal data and, where needed, pay for their own application.
As the employer, you’ll then receive helpful email notifications prompting you to complete the Identity Check, and once the check is complete.
What’s uCheck’s role in the application process?
Our HR Platform will guide you through the application, prompting you to check that all applicant data is correct and the correct identity documents have been provided.
Once you’ve submitted an application, our uCheck countersignatories will review it to make sure the applicant meets the eligibility criteria for a DBS Enhanced Check before submitting it to the DBS.
This helps to minimise delays as it means the DBS is less likely to query applications during the vetting process. It also ensures that you’re applying for the correct type of check for the person in question. It’s illegal for an employer to obtain a higher level of check than an applicant is eligible for.
What are the benefits of using uCheck to obtain an Enhanced DBS Check?
Applying for an Enhanced DBS Check online through our HR Platform brings a host of benefits, including:
- A dedicated, UK-based Client Support Team to guide you throughout the application process.
- A walk-through video to help you familiarise yourself with our Platform and its services.
- A secure Platform built in line with the latest DBS Guidance to give you peace of mind.
- Online tracking function allows you to quickly check the status of your applications.
- Downloadable online summary results for your Enhanced DBS Checks with a few clicks.
