A Guide To DBS Checks for Sports Clubs
In recent years, the world of football and sports has been rocked by child abuse scandals. Predatory adults have used sports clubs to get close to children and commit hideous crimes.
Due to media coverage of the exposure of these scandals, there is more pressure than ever on sports clubs for children to make sure that DBS Check procedures are followed properly and any children and vulnerable adults are safeguarded when attending sports clubs.
How to improve safeguarding
Safer recruiting is all about making sure the staff involved in sports clubs are suitable for the role and safe to be around children or vulnerable adults.
Recruitment of staff or volunteers for a sports club needs to be carefully managed and overseen to make sure that vulnerable people are protected.
First of all, there needs to be a safeguarding policy in place that sets out what measures are in place and what actions will be taken to protect people. The procedures and processes should include criminal background checks, candidate interviews, and reference checking.
What types of roles need DBS Checks?
There are certain roles within a sports club that are classed as ‘regulated activities’ and need the highest level of DBS Check, known as an Enhanced DBS Check, as well as a barred list check.
A regulated activity is defined by the DBS as a role that involves direct, unsupervised contact with children or vulnerable adults, carrying out tasks such as teaching, training, instructing, and coaching.
Therefore, any adult that is directly involved in coaching children or vulnerable adults in a sports club setting, in an unsupervised capacity and on a frequent basis, is likely to need an Enhanced DBS Check.
Some other sports club roles may require a lower level of DBS Check, such as administrative or assistant coaching jobs, which may only require a Standard DBS Check or Basic DBS Check. In other words, the nature of the role determines the level of DBS Check required.
Is there any specific guidance on DBS Check for sports clubs?
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) doesn’t offer any specific guidance for sports clubs, but some of the sporting and activity governing bodies may offer guidance.
For instance, the Football Association (FA) provides guidance on safer recruitment and DBS Checks on their website.
How can sports club staff apply for a DBS Check?
People who work at a sports club will need to apply for a DBS Check by post or online. For higher level checks (standard or enhanced), the application needs to be verified and submitted by a DBS registered organisation or umbrella body.
We offer an easy-to-use and fast online application service at DBSchecks.org.uk and we are a DBS registered body.
A summary of DBS Checks for sports clubs
DBS Checks are an important part of safer recruitment and safeguarding policy of sports clubs. Sports clubs often involve the participation of children or vulnerable adults and every member of a sports club should be protected from harm.
You can apply for DBS Checks using our convenient online service. To find out more, contact one of our expert advisors today.
