Understanding Basic DBS Checks

If you're in the process of hiring new talent or just curious about background checks, you've likely come across the term "Basic DBS Check." But what exactly is it, and how can it benefit your hiring process? Let's break it down.

What is a Basic DBS Check?

A Basic DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a criminal record check designed to reveal an individual's unspent convictions or conditional cautions. Unlike other types of checks, it's available for all job roles and sectors, even if the role doesn't typically require a DBS check. This flexibility empowers employers to make informed recruitment decisions efficiently.

What Will and Won't Be Disclosed on Basic DBS Checks?

Basic DBS checks provide essential information for employers, but it's crucial to understand their scope. Here's what you can expect:

Will Be Disclosed:

Unspent Convictions: Basic DBS checks will reveal any convictions that haven't reached their rehabilitation period, giving you insight into recent criminal activity.

Won't Be Disclosed:

Spent Convictions: Convictions that have passed their rehabilitation period won't appear on Basic checks. This promotes the rehabilitation of offenders.

Cautions No Longer Relevant: If a caution is no longer considered relevant, it won't show up on a Basic DBS check.

Ongoing Investigations: Details of ongoing investigations, even if they may lead to future convictions, are not included.

Enhanced DBS Information: Enhanced DBS checks offer a more comprehensive examination of an individual's history, including information not found in Basic checks.

So, if you need a quick overview of recent convictions to support your hiring process, Basic DBS checks are an efficient option. However, for roles requiring a more thorough examination, Enhanced DBS checks might be the way to go.

Who Needs a Basic DBS Check?

The great news is that a Basic DBS check can be used across various job roles and sectors. Whether you're in hospitality, construction, retail, office work, or security, a Basic DBS check can provide peace of mind and streamline your recruitment process. Unlike standard and enhanced checks, there are no specific criteria to meet when applying for a Basic DBS check.

Basic DBS vs. Standard or Enhanced DBS Checks: What's the Difference?

While Basic DBS checks provide a valuable overview of an individual's unspent convictions or conditional cautions, Standard and Enhanced DBS checks offer more in-depth insights.

Standard DBS checks delve deeper into an applicant's background, including spent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings, providing a more thorough evaluation.

Enhanced DBS checks, on the other hand, are the most detailed; suitable for positions involving substantial contact with vulnerable individuals. They encompass all the aspects of Standard Disclosure checks and also involve checks against local police records.

So, the choice between Basic, Standard, or Enhanced DBS checks largely depends on the nature of the role and the level of detail you require to make informed hiring decisions.

What's the Cost of a Basic Disclosure?

A Basic DBS check is budget-friendly, costing a total of £28. This includes the DBS fee of £18 and VAT. Click here to find out more about Complygate’s Basic DBS Checks.

How Long Does It Take?

Basic Disclosure Checks are often completed within an impressive 24 hours. We're dedicated to submitting all applications within an hour of receiving them, ensuring speedy turnaround times.

Basic DBS or Basic Disclosure Scotland?

Complygate is a registered body for both the Disclosure & Barring Service and Disclosure Scotland. If applicants currently reside or work in England and Wales, they can apply for a Basic DBS Check. Conversely, individuals living or working in Scotland receive a Basic Disclosure Scotland check. Click here to learn more about Basic Disclosure Scotland. Importantly, Basic DBS Scotland checks are valid throughout the United Kingdom.

Why Consider Basic DBS Checks?

• Better Insight into Candidates - Basic DBS checks go beyond the traditional interview façade. They offer a glimpse into a candidate's character, allowing you to assess their suitability for your organisation.
• Cost-Effective and Quick - Among various background check options, Basic DBS checks are both accurate and budget-friendly. They deliver results promptly, eliminating unnecessary waiting times.
• Discover Hidden Talents - Social media profiles can unveil hidden skills and talents not evident during interviews. You might stumble upon a public-speaking ace or a networking pro, which could be a game-changer for your business.

In conclusion, Basic DBS checks are a versatile and efficient tool for enhancing your recruitment process. They provide valuable insights into a candidate's character, helping you make informed decisions while ensuring a smooth hiring journey.

Take advantage of Complygate's Basic DBS checks for a dependable, efficient, and insightful approach to hiring. Book a demo today to experience the benefits firsthand. Your next hire might just be a click away!