A Guide to DBS Checks for TV and Film
Many fields of work require safeguarding. DBS checks are an essential background check within a growing number of workplaces.
Therefore, you may be wondering which checks are appropriate in which field. If so, in this article we will guide you through how DBS checks work within the TV and Film industry.
If there are children on set, does this affect DBS check eligibility?
Usually when we think about DBS Checks, if there are children involved in the filming work, then an Enhanced DBS Check is suitable.
However, when working in TV and film, any children on set will have a chaperone accompanying them at all times, so that no employees are left unsupervised with the child. The care of the child is then clearly defined as the chaperones’s responsibility.
There are other roles like makeup artists, costume designers, directors and other staff that work closely with children. But seeing as the activity included within their role does not include supervising or caring for the child, then a DBS check may not be necessary. Also, to reiterate, the child should be accompanied by a chaperone, which means the employees are not in direct unsupervised contact with the child.
What if regulated activity is involved?
So, as mentioned in the previous section, not all TV and film roles that involve contact children or vulnerable adults require an Enhanced DBS Check, especially as a chaperone should be present.
But just like any other job, if a regulated activity is being carried out, then this means that the employee will be eligible for an Enhanced DBS Check. So, for example, the chaperone mentioned previously would require an Enhanced DBS Check. Other jobs like tutors that involve tasks like teaching or instructing children would also be eligible.
Regulated activities cover things like teaching, working, supervising, instructing or supervising. For it to count as a regulated activity by the DBS, then it must be carried out three or more times over a 30 day period.
What if I don’t fit the criteria for an Enhanced Check?
If an employee is not eligible then there is still another check that can be done; a Basic DBS Check. There are no requirements for a Basic DBS Check, except for the individual’s age, which states that they have to be aged 16 years or over.
The Basic DBS Check will display any unspent conviction the employee may have. It is encouraged that you carry out a Basic Check if an Enhanced isn’t necessary, as it demonstrates that an organisation feels that safeguarding is important and that they are committed to it
If you have any questions on DBS Checks then feel free to get in touch – we are always happy to help.
