A Guide to DBS Checks for Photographers
Photographers often work in a variety of different locations and even when in their own studio, they are photographing a variety of people.
For this reason, it is often the case that a photographer will need to get a DBS Check to ensure that they are trustworthy and do not pose a risk to other people or property.
In this short guide, we will discuss the type of DBS Checks that photographers need and how to get them.
What level of DBS Check is appropriate for photographers?
There are three levels of DBS Check available – Basic, Standard, and Enhanced. The level of check that a photographer needs depends on where they work and how they are working with. We’ll explore that in more detail in a moment, but first let’s take a quick look at what is involved in each type of DBS Check.
- Basic DBS Check – highlights any unspent convictions and conditional cautions on an individual’s criminal record. Anybody aged 16 or over can request a basic check.
- Standard DBS Check – highlights spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. Standard checks must be submitted by an employer or registered body on the applicants behalf.
- Enhanced DBS Check – highlights all of the same details as the Standard DBS Check, plus any relevant details that are stored in the records of local police forces. Standard checks must be submitted by an employer or registered body on the applicants behalf.
In general, the role of a photographer does not fit the criteria needed to warrant a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check, unless they are working in a regulated activity or a location or establishment that requires one.
All photographers can get a Basic DBS Check if they wish or if a client requires one and they can apply for it themselves, as long as they are aged 16 years or more.
Enhanced DBS Checks for Photographers
A photographer may require an Enhanced DBS Check when they are working in direct contact with children or vulnerable adults. If they are undertaking a regulated activity then they will need an Enhanced DBS Check with a child’s or adult’s barred list check.
A regulated activity is when a role involves working with children or vulnerable adults in an unsupervised capacity, on a frequent basis. “Frequent” is defined by the DBS as once per week or occurring a minimum of three times during a thirty day timeframe.
For example, a photographer that works in a school or college more than twice per month will require an Enhanced DBS Check with barred list check.
How do Photographers Apply for a DBS Check?
The method of application for a DBS Check depends on the level of check required.
A Basic DBS Check is very easy to apply for, as it can be done online using our easy-to-use, quick, and reliable service.
Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks are a bit more involved, as they must be submitted by a registered body to verify the information.
Summary – DBS Checks for Photographers
Photographers that work frequently with children or vulnerable adults (e.g. in schools, hospitals, nurseries, care homes, etc.) will qualify for an Enhanced DBS Check.
Photographers that work in locations that require infrequent or supervised contact with children or vulnerable adults will qualify for a Standard DBS Check.
Any photographer can request a Basic DBS Check if they need it for any reason.
To find out more about DBS Checks, get in touch today.