There are four levels of DBS checks. The most comprehensive are the Enhanced DBS check and the Enhanced DBS check with barred list, which are used for roles involving work with children or vulnerable adults.
DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) enhanced checks play a vital role in ensuring the safety of individuals in employment. This comprehensive guide aims to answer common questions about enhanced DBS checks. All while delivering a deeper understanding of their purpose, application process, and importance.
What is an enhanced DBS check?
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) carries out Enhanced DBS checks, which is a criminal check covering England and Wales. It explores criminal records and other relevant information to assess suitability for specific roles like working with vulnerable groups.
What is an enhanced with barred list DBS check?
An enhanced DBS check with barred list includes all the information revealed in an enhanced DBS check. Additionally, it provides information about whether an individual is barred from working with vulnerable groups, revealing if the person is legally restricted from certain roles, such as working with children or adults at risk.
Who needs the check?
Roles in sectors such as healthcare, education, and social care typically require Enhanced DBS checks to ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals and maintain public trust.
What information does an enhanced DBS check reveal?
An Enhanced DBS check reveals any spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings held on the Police National Computer, along with any relevant information held by local police forces.
For roles involving regulated activity (like teaching), the check will also confirm whether the individual is included on the Children’s or Adults’ Barred Lists.
Submitting accurate documentation helps avoid delays during the application process.
Vetting handlers can track application progress within our platform, improving visibility at each stage and enabling them to share updates with applicants.
What Does the Enhanced DBS Digital Certificate Include?
DBS does not issue a digital certificate. Any electronic result provided during the process is indicative only and is not a substitute for the official DBS certificate.
The official DBS certificate is a physical document sent directly to the applicant, and employers must review the original paper certificate before making any recruitment or safeguarding decisions.
As stated by DBS:
“This is not a certificate issued by the Disclosure and Barring Service. Please ensure you view the hard copy of the certificate before making a recruitment, employment or licensing decision.”
Electronic results may include details such as the DBS certificate number and employer information. They can support internal tracking and visibility, but they must not be relied upon in isolation.
Here’s an overview of what it looks like and the key details it contains:
- Personal Details: Applicant’s full name, date of birth, and current address.
- Disclosure Type: Confirms that it is an Enhanced DBS Check.
- Role Information: Specifies the job or position the check was completed for.
- Criminal Record Details: Lists any convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings.
- Barred List Results (if applicable): Shows if the individual is barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.
- Date of Issue: Clearly states when the certificate was issued
View example of an electronic DBS result (for reference only)
How do you apply for an enhanced DBS check?
The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 specifically governs the enhanced DBS check. Individuals cannot apply for an Enhanced DBS check themselves.
Applications must be initiated by an employer or organisation, meaning candidates must have a role that authorises them to require an Enhanced check.
To submit an application, employers must either:
• Be registered as a Responsible Organisation or Registered Body, or
• Use an approved umbrella body or screening provider (like EBC Global)
The employer is responsible for verifying identity, submitting the application, and ensuring the correct level of check is carried out based on the role.
How much does an enhanced DBS check cost?
The standard DBS fee for an Enhanced DBS check is £49.50.
However, most organisations will pay a higher total cost, typically ranging from £55 to £80, depending on the provider. This reflects additional charges such as administration, identity verification, and VAT.
Applying directly can be more time-consuming, particularly for organisations managing multiple checks or complex workflows. EBC Global offers discounted rates on volumes, and applications can be initiated quickly through a central digital workflow
Why do some checks take so long?
The final check is with the police forces. This means a manual check by a qualified member of that Police force’s staff. Some take a lot longer than others. The Metropolitan Police issued an apology on their website that some checks were taking up to 100 days. The current SLA from the Met is up to 60 days!! Other Police Forces have much better turnaround times.
How far back does an enhanced DBS check?
An enhanced DBS check does not have a specific time limit for looking back into an individual’s criminal history. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of an individual’s criminal record, including both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings.
The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (ROA) and the Police Act 1997 determine the information disclosed on an enhanced DBS check. The ROA establishes rules regarding the rehabilitation of offenders, specifying the duration for certain convictions to become “spent” and no longer require disclosure. However, an enhanced DBS check may always disclose certain types of offences, such as those related to serious crimes or safeguarding concerns, irrespective of their spent or unspent status.
The decision on what information to include in an enhanced DBS check is based on the police’s professional judgment and any relevant legal requirements or guidance. The police possess the discretion to include additional information that they reasonably deem necessary for the applied position, such as relevant police intelligence.
It’s important to note that the specific details and disclosure periods may vary based on the jurisdiction and the nature of the role being applied for. It is advisable to consult with the DBS or a qualified professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the disclosure periods and requirements for an enhanced DBS check in a particular situation.
Can an individual apply for an enhanced DBS check for themselves?
In most cases, individuals cannot apply for an enhanced DBS check directly. Only eligible organisations/employers with a legitimate need for the information as part of their recruitment or safeguarding processes can request the checks. However, individuals can request a basic DBS check for themselves, which provides a less comprehensive overview of their criminal history.
Find out more about a Basic DBS Check
Can employers request an enhanced DBS check for all job positions?
No, employers cannot request an enhanced DBS check for all job positions. The requirement for a DBS enhanced check is specific to roles that involve working with vulnerable groups, where it is necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of those in the care or custody of the company. The decision to request an enhanced DBS check should be based on a thorough risk assessment and compliance with relevant legislation and guidelines.
What is the difference between a standard DBS check and an enhanced DBS check?
The main difference between a standard DBS check and an enhanced DBS check lies in the level of information disclosed. A standard DBS check reveals unspent convictions, while an enhanced DBS check provides a more comprehensive view by disclosing both spent and unspent convictions, as well as cautions, reprimands, and warnings. Enhanced checks also encompass pertinent police intelligence information that is reasonably deemed necessary for the applied position.
Can overseas residents or non-UK citizens apply for an enhanced DBS check?
Yes, overseas residents and non-UK citizens who seek employment or volunteer positions in the UK may need to undergo an enhanced DBS check. The process may vary depending on individual circumstances, and additional checks or documentation may be necessary to validate identity and criminal records from the individual’s home country.
How long is an enhanced DBS check valid?
An enhanced DBS check does not have an official expiry date. However, its validity is subject to the policies and procedures of the company or employer requesting the check. Many employers mandate regular updates of DBS checks, typically every three to five years, to guarantee the ongoing suitability and safety of their employees or volunteers.
Can an enhanced DBS check be transferred between employers?
No, an enhanced DBS check cannot be transferred between employers or businesses. Each employer or company must carry out their own individual check, even if a recent check has been conducted by another party. This ensures that each employer has access to the most up-to-date and relevant information specific to their role and the vulnerable individuals they are responsible for.
What happens if there is information disclosed on the check?
If information is disclosed on an enhanced DBS check, it is essential for the employer or company to carefully consider the relevance and implications of the disclosed information. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify an individual from employment or volunteer opportunities. The employer must follow their internal policies, legal obligations, and regulatory guidelines to assess the nature, circumstances, and recency of the disclosed information before making an informed decision.
Can someone with a criminal record still get a job with an enhanced DBS check?
Yes, it is possible for someone with a criminal record to secure employment even with an enhanced DBS check. The decision lies with the employer. They must assess the context of the role, the nature of the offence, the individual’s rehabilitation, and legal restrictions. In some cases, employers may have specific policies in place regarding hiring individuals with certain types of criminal records.
Can I appeal the results of my DBS check if I believe they are incorrect or unfair?
Yes, individuals have the right to appeal the results of an enhanced DBS check. However, they must believe the information disclosed is incorrect, incomplete, or unfairly impacting their employment opportunities. The process involves contacting the Disclosure and Barring Service and providing evidence to challenge the accuracy of the disclosed information. The DBS will review the appeal and decide based on the available evidence and legal requirements.
Enhanced DBS checks are integral to safeguarding vulnerable individuals while ensuring a safe environment in various employment roles. By understanding the significance of these checks, organisations can navigate the process more effectively, and make informed decisions. Always consult official sources and seek professional advice for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding enhanced DBS checks.
Key Statistics on Enhanced DBS
Using Employment Check Pro for DBS checks
Employment Check Pro streamlines the DBS application process by digitising identity verification, document collection, and application submission.
While electronic results can provide an early indication of outcome, they are not a substitute for the official DBS certificate. Employers must always review the original paper certificate before making any employment decisions.
Our platform helps organisations manage and track checks efficiently, but any repeat or ongoing checks must be manually initiated by the employer in line with their internal compliance processes.
Simplify your DBS screening by eliminating manual processes and reduce administrative burdens. Whether you’re a small business or a large company, our reliable and user-friendly solution optimises your screening procedures.
Book a demo to improve your DBS screening process while maintaining full compliance.
Additional Resources
DBS Criminal Record Check Turnaround Times (Jan 2025)
Price Increases to DBS Fees
What Are The 5 Stages That A DBS Check Can Go Through?
