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DBS checks:

1.About DBS checks

On this page:

    Introduction

    A Disclosure Barring Service check, better known as a DBS check, helps us as an employer to look into the criminal record of someone who works with us, or who wants to work with us.

    We typically do these checks for people who are in jobs where they interact with:

    • children
    • young people
    • vulnerable adults.

    Who this section is for

    Managers

    If you are a manager who needs to carry out a DBS check, this section will help you to:

    Staff members

    If your manager has asked you to complete the employee section of the DBS check application, our step-by-step guide will help you.

    DBS checks for current staff members

    Staff members should have their DBS check renewed every three years.

    DBS checks for preferred candidates

    If you are recruiting to a role that requires a DBS check, once a preferred candidate has been identified, you must make sure they have a valid DBS check certificate prior to starting the role.

    1: Members of the update service

    The update service, is a specialist service that provides you with real-time information on the status of your staff member’s criminal record.

    This means their information is always up-to-date, and:

    • you’ll receive a notification if anything changes
    • you no longer need to apply for a refreshed DBS check every few years.

    Find out more about the DBS checks update service

    2: Employees without a valid certificate

    If your staff member doesn’t subscribe to the update service, and doesn’t have a valid certificate, then as their line manager you must request a DBS check for them.

    Request a DBS check

    1: Existing valid certificate

    If the preferred candidate has done a similar job before, they might already have a certificate that’s still valid.

    It’s a good idea to ask them about this, because if they do, the council won’t have to spend money on getting a new one.

    If they do have a valid certificate, you’ll just need to carry out some checks before they can work for the council.

    Check an existing DBS certificate

    2: Getting a DBS check

    If the candidate does not have a valid certificate, you will need to request a new one.

    Request a DBS check

    Employee confidential helpline

    0330 380 0658

    Speak to fully qualified counsellors and support specialists at any time, 365 days a year.

    Use code 107574 to access the online resources.

    More about the employee assistance programme

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