DBS Checks and Social Media Content
The majority of jobs now require the applicant to undergo a DBS check as part of the recruitment process. DBS checks help employers make the right recruitment decisions and that applicants are safe working with vulnerable groups or carrying out any regulated activities.
There are three levels of DBS checks, basic, standard and enhanced. Each level discloses different information, so the correct DBS check must be applied for, especially when the individual is working with vulnerable groups.
Employers also need to be aware that an individual’s criminal history isn’t the only thing they need to be aware of.
Does Social Media Affect DBS Checks?
An increasing number of employers are starting to check an applicant’s social media presence as part of their recruitment process. Individuals actively looking for work need to be aware that what they post online can affect their chances of successfully finding a job. Most people are cautious about what they post and use the correct privacy settings.
However, there have been instances where social media misconduct has led to police intervention and any criminal prosecutions would show up on an online DBS application. This is why it is important to carefully consider what you’re posting on social media especially if you are actively looking for a new job role.
It is important to remember that it is the employer’s decision whether they hire someone and an applicant’s social media activity can have an impact on this. Social media activity can stay on a person’s record for up to 6 months depending on the nature of the content,
Non-Hate Crime Incidents
A social media complaint may qualify as a non-hate crime incident. This information is held on the Police National Computer, so although they’re not classed as crimes, they can still show up on an enhanced DBS check.
What Does A DBS Check Show?
Basic DBS Check
This check is the one that most employers will ask for, it’s the lowest level available and only shows current or unspent convictions and cautions. However, the majority of social media complaints are not classed as crimes so they won’t show up on basic DBS checks. Anyone over the age of 16 can apply for a DBS check and it usually takes 14 days to process.
Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks
Unlike basic checks, standard and enhanced DBS checks will also include spent or unspent convictions, cautions, warnings and reprimands.
Enhanced DBS checks are the highest level available and sometimes include a Barred List check too, for regulated activity roles. The police are also able to include any other information that they feel is relevant, this could include any non-hate crimes that have been recorded. Enhanced DBS checks are needed if you work in healthcare or education.
What Should Applicants Do Regarding Their DBS Checks?
If your job role requires you to have a DBS check then you must use social media carefully and be cautious about what you share. Any offensive, hateful or threatening content can lead to the police being involved. The information then shows up on an Enhanced DBS check.
If you’d like to find out more about DBS Checks and social media or ask any other questions regarding DBS checks, then contact one of our expert advisors today.