Are you looking to get an enhanced DBS check for an employee? If so, you've come to the right place. Obtaining an enhanced DBS check is a process that requires a few steps, and it's important to understand the eligibility criteria and the different types of checks available. In this article, we'll explain the process for obtaining an enhanced DBS check and provide some helpful tips for getting started. An enhanced DBS check is the most detailed and comprehensive criminal background and prohibition check that can be carried out in the UK.
Employers and organizations can request enhanced disclosure to ensure that candidates are suitable for the position they applied for. Enhanced checks are sent by secure electronic means to the police for additional verification of local records before the information is returned to the DBS. Enhanced DBS checks are only available to people who interact with the most vulnerable and at risk demographic groups in our society. Health professionals, support workers, and teachers fall into this classification. Only functions that are included in the 1975 (Exceptions) Order of 1975 of the Offender Rehabilitation Act (ROA) are eligible for enhanced DBS verification.
This normally includes any role performed at least once a week (or 3 days in a 30-day period) in a school, nursing home, or hospital. However, some roles are exempt from the normal criteria. For example, all taxi drivers and private rental drivers need an enhanced DBS record to obtain their license. As they often transport the most vulnerable groups in society, these checks are essential to help protect the public. An optional search on the list of prohibited persons for children or adults can also be included in an enhanced DBS check. This level of control will also include any notes from local police that you consider relevant to you as an employer. Before you can begin processing enhanced DBS checks, you must determine whether your job meets certain eligibility criteria.
The criteria can be complicated, so it's important to consult with experts if you're not sure if a position meets the criteria. Enhanced DBS checks can be performed with or without a banned list search. If a person works somewhere, such as a nursing home or school, but does not provide care or training to the vulnerable group, only an enhanced DBS check would be required. Applications are created and completed by your applicants. Identification is verified and forms are sent to DBS.
The Disclosure and Prohibition Service (DBS) receives the request through our secure portal. The DBS checks can be completed in as little as 24 hours and the confirmation is sent directly to you by email. When a DBS application is submitted, it is transferred to the Disclosure and Prohibition Service (DBS). All DBS checks are subject to the same processing times at DBS, regardless of who sends them. The average response time for an enhanced DBS check submitted by Personnel Checks is 6 days - 2 days faster than the national average. However, they can be processed in as little as 24 hours.
There are several organizations that offer a “fast track” service at an additional cost. These services will not accelerate the DBS verification itself, as all DBS checks are subject to DBS processing times. Enhanced DBS checks are only available to employers who need to make a hiring or suitability decision about a person working in a regulated activity (see below). This means that, as an individual, you can't get an enhanced DBS verification for yourself. Regulated activity is a definition of DBS that describes certain activities involving vulnerable groups. There are two types of regulated activity: “activity with adults” and “activity with children”.
There is no definitive list that determines what functions meet the definition of regulated activity. The DBS, the Ministry of Interior and other government agencies are collaborating to develop a guide that can help you determine if a position can be classified as a regulated activity. If you're not sure if a position meets the eligibility criteria, give us a call and we'll advise you. Enhanced DBS checks don't last for a specific period of time. The information provided in a DBS certificate is only correct during the period before it was issued. Most organizations have their own rules for how often enhanced DBS verification must be performed.
This is usually between 1 and 3 years. Our price for an upgraded DBS check is £64.40, including VAT. To start processing enhanced DBS checks, submit a form here. Applicants must verify their identification (see below for more information) and submit their application before waiting for their verification to complete.
Once the verification is complete, a DBS certificate is sent directly to the applicant. The notification of completion will be sent to the manager in the application form by email. If you need help understanding how to obtain an enhanced DBS check, or have any questions about eligibility criteria or processing times, don't hesitate to contact us - we're here to help!.
