A Guide To DBS Checks for Children’s Entertainers
Children’s entertainers provide things like magic shows or circus events for children’s parties. This means that they are frequently in contact with children, in a similar way to teachers, healthcare workers, and social workers.
For this reason, child safeguarding is an important thing to consider for children’s entertainers and party performers. One of the main safeguards that needs to be in place is a criminal background check, known as a DBS Check.
The law on DBS Checks and safeguarding
In 2006, legislation was introduced known as the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act. This act of parliament aims to protect children and vulnerable adults from potential harm caused by criminals.
As a result of this legislation, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) was established. The DBS deals with the vetting and regulation of people involved in jobs or voluntary roles that have a degree of responsibility or safeguarding concerns.
Do children’s entertainers need a DBS Check?
The answer to the question of whether children’s party performers need a DBS Check is not a straightforward one.
In most cases, children’s entertainers are not left unattended or unsupervised with children, so it would be considered low risk. Parents or adult family members will be present. However, even in these cases some of the local authorities may recommend that you get a DBS Check carried out.
If you are a self-employed children’s entertainer and you are required to get a DBS Check (or want to get one to give parents peace of mind when hiring you), then you can use an umbrella body like ours here at DBSCheck.org.uk.
You can apply online through our easy-to-use and convenient platform and get the results within 48 hours (on average).
How the online DBS Check application process works
Applying for a DBS Check online is a very simple process. All you need to do is fill in an application form online, which will take around 5 to 10 minutes. We will check the form to make sure there are no mistakes and verify your ID documents.
You need to provide address details going back for the past five years, as well as copies of a passport, birth certificate, or other official ID. You’ll also need to provide a bank statement or copy of a utility bill with your address on it. You need to provide at least three forms of ID altogether.
You can simply upload the ID documents online when you submit the application form. We will check them over, verify them, and submit your application to the DBS.
Summary of DBS Checks for children’s entertainers
If you work as a children’s entertainer or party performer, then you may be required to get a DBS Check. If so, the easiest way is to use a DBS umbrella body like our service.
Here at DBSchecks.org.uk, you can apply for a DBS Check within minutes, upload your ID documents, and then wait for the results which usually arrive within 48 hours.
If you’d like to find out more about DBS Checks for children’s entertainers and party performers, then get in touch today – our expert advisors are more than happy to help out.