Safeguarding the Vulnerable: A Guide to Enhanced DBS Check

Considering an individual for a role that involves dealing with children or vulnerable adults? You may require an enhanced DBS check. This is the most detailed type of criminal background check available from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Unlike Standard DBS checks, which are widely used, enhanced DBS checks are restricted to organisations performing “regulated activities”. These jobs entail utmost confidence in the absence of any doubts involved during the recruitment process. An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check examines in detail the criminal history of an applicant including spent convictions as well as other local police issues that may be considered concerning. This enables organisations to make more informed choices about who has access to vulnerable persons.

What is an Enhanced DBS Check

The most thorough criminal history and barring check offered by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) is an Enhanced DBS check. It contains an extensive amount of information when compared to Basic and Standard DBS checks, providing a broader overview of an applicant's criminal background.

It reveals a complete criminal record, including both spent and unspent convictions as specified by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (ROA). This means that even minor offences will be included in the report. An enhanced check usually discloses:

• Convictions spent and unspent
• Caution, warning, and reprimand
• Information from local police departments
• Check against barred lists.

Jobs That Require a DBS Check Enhanced

A DBS Check Enhanced is a critical step for organisations concerned with the well-being of vulnerable individuals. Here are some common occupations that usually demand this thorough criminal background check:

• Those working with children: This includes teachers, childcare providers, and anyone who supervises children in educational or recreational situations.
• Those looking after vulnerable adults: Social workers, healthcare professionals, and personal carers may all need an enhanced DBS check to protect the safety of individuals in their care.
• Other regulated roles: Depending on their unique duties, taxi drivers, security workers, and others in positions of trust may require an enhanced check.

Cost of an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check

An enhanced DBS check, also known as an enhanced disclosure and barring service check, is charged a flat price of £50 (excluding VAT) for all applications, including volunteers. This cost can be conveniently paid online via debit or credit card.

Documents Required for a DBS Check Enhanced

Getting an enhanced DBS check is a simple process that requires certain documentation. Typically, you will need to have the following documents available:

• Proof of Identity: A valid passport or photocard driver's licence with your birth date clearly displayed.


• Proof of Address: Verify your present address with two documents from the past three months. Utility bills, bank statements, mortgage statements, and credit card statements are all acceptable documents.


• National Insurance Number: This unique identification essential for the DBS check process.

If the applicant has a British or Irish passport, he or she can request online ID verification during the enhanced DBS check application. This eliminates the requirement to produce original documents for ID verification. However, it should be noted that ID verification is still required to complete the recruitment process.

How to Apply for Enhanced DBS Check

Here’s how to apply for Enhanced DBS Check online:

Secure Consent

Prior to carrying out the enhanced DBS check, obtain the candidate's explicit approval. Explain the process and assure them that their information is safe and secure.

Select a Reputable Provider

It is vital to select a reliable organisation to carry out the check. Look for an organisation that is committed to accuracy and data security, such as Complygate.

Collect the Essential Information

Collect all relevant documentation (as outlined above), including their full name, date of birth, and address history. This ensures a thorough and accurate background check.

Submit Online Application

Utilising the information acquired, make a request for an enhanced DBS check via a secure online interface offered by your preferred provider. This starts the verification procedure electronically.

Receive the DBS Check Report

After processing, the enhanced DBS check report will be provided online. This detailed report summarises the candidate's criminal background, allowing you to make informed decisions about their suitability for the role.

 

Turnaround Time for an Enhanced DBS Check

A DBS check Enhanced requires a collaboration between the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and local police forces to obtain a broader variety of information. On average, you can expect to receive the enhanced disclosure and barring service check results within 7-14 working days.

Check a DBS Enhanced Online

Whether you're the applicant or the employer, you can conveniently track the progress of your application using the DBS tracking service.

To access the DBS online tracking service for both standard and enhanced DBS checks, an applicant must provide only their application reference number and date of birth.

Registered businesses can also use the online tracking service to track the status of many applications at the same time, saving important time and expediting the recruitment process.

Still unsure about Enhanced DBS check? Don't hesitate to reach out to us for expert guidance. We can answer your questions and ensure you're adhering to all regulations. Click here to contact us today!