A Standard DBS check is an important part of the hiring process in the UK, used to assess a candidate’s criminal record before they are employed in specific roles. This article will explore what a Standard DBS check is, how it differs from an Enhanced DBS check, where and how to apply, the supporting documents required, and why it is essential for certain roles.
What Is a Standard DBS Check?
A Standard DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check provides detailed information about an individual’s criminal record, including both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. It is a mid-level check that is used by employers to ensure that potential employees are suitable for positions of trust or responsibility. The check is most commonly used for roles in sectors such as healthcare, financial services, and law enforcement, where there is a need to vet employees thoroughly, though they may not have direct unsupervised contact with vulnerable individuals.
The Standard DBS check helps organizations mitigate risks by revealing criminal history that may affect a person’s suitability for certain roles. It is different from the Basic DBS check, which only shows unspent convictions, and does not provide as much detail as the Enhanced DBS check.
Where and How to Apply for a Standard DBS Check
Unlike a Basic DBS check, which individuals can apply for themselves, a Standard DBS check must be requested by an employer or organization. The application process involves several steps that the employer must follow on behalf of the applicant:
Employer Initiation: The employer initiates the DBS check process by filling out an application form with details about the applicant and the job role.
Identity Verification: The applicant must provide documents to verify their identity, such as a passport or driving license, which the employer will check to ensure they are valid.
Application Submission: The completed application form and supporting documents are then submitted to the DBS either online or via mail. The DBS processing fee is paid by the employer.
Processing and Results: The DBS checks the individual’s criminal history through various databases, including the Police National Computer (PNC). Once the check is completed, a certificate is sent to the applicant, who must share it with the employer.
Supporting Documents Required for a Standard DBS Check
To apply for a Standard DBS check, the applicant must provide documents that prove their identity and address. These documents are divided into three groups, and applicants need to supply a combination of documents from these groups:
- Group 1: Primary Identity Documents: Passport, driving license (photocard), birth certificate (issued within 12 months of birth), or a biometric residence permit.
- Group 2a: Trusted Government Documents: These include a driving license (if not used in Group 1), a marriage or civil partnership certificate, or adoption certificate.
- Group 2b: Financial and Social History Documents: This includes a utility bill, bank statement, council tax statement, or mortgage statement, all dated within the past three months.
The specific combination of documents depends on what the applicant has available, but the employer will guide them through the verification process.
Why Is a Standard DBS Check Necessary?
A Standard DBS check is essential for a number of reasons, particularly when it comes to roles of trust or those involving significant responsibilities. Here are some key reasons why it is needed:
Public Trust and Safety: For roles in sectors like healthcare, finance, and law, employees often handle sensitive information or manage substantial responsibilities. Employers need to be certain that individuals are trustworthy and have no history that could compromise their role.
Regulatory Compliance: In certain regulated professions, it is a legal requirement to conduct a Standard DBS check. For example, jobs in healthcare and financial services often require a Standard DBS check to meet industry regulations.
Risk Mitigation: By conducting a Standard DBS check, employers can identify any potential risks associated with a candidate’s criminal history. This helps organizations protect their reputation and ensure workplace safety.
Suitability for the Role: A Standard DBS check ensures that individuals with criminal records that might disqualify them from holding positions of trust are filtered out early in the hiring process.
How a Standard DBS Check Differs from an Enhanced DBS Check
While the Standard DBS check provides a good level of detail about an applicant’s criminal record, it is less comprehensive than an Enhanced DBS check. Here are the main differences:
- Standard DBS Check: Reveals spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. It is suitable for roles of trust but does not involve working directly with vulnerable groups.
- Enhanced DBS Check: In addition to the information found in a Standard check, an Enhanced DBS check includes a check of local police records, which may contain any additional information deemed relevant to the role. For positions where applicants work directly with children or vulnerable adults, the Enhanced check also includes a check of the barred lists, which highlight individuals who are legally prohibited from working with these groups.
In essence, the Standard DBS check is more limited in scope and is not designed for positions that involve direct, unsupervised contact with vulnerable individuals.
A Standard DBS check is an essential screening tool for employers in certain sectors. It provides detailed information about an individual’s criminal history, helping employers make informed decisions about hiring. While the process must be initiated by the employer, applicants are responsible for providing the necessary documentation to verify their identity.
Although the Standard DBS check offers valuable insights into an individual’s background, it is distinct from an Enhanced DBS check, which is required for roles involving vulnerable populations. In summary, conducting a Standard DBS check is a vital step in ensuring safety, public trust, and compliance in various professional fields.
