The Effect of Brexit On DBS Checks
Brexit has been a hot topic for the past few years, and people are still trying to understand its full implications.
One area that is often overlooked when it comes to understanding the effects of Brexit is DBS checks. How exactly does Brexit affect DBS checks and what do individuals need to know about them?
What are DBS Checks?
DBS checks, also known as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, are background checks used by employers in the United Kingdom to ensure that potential employees have no criminal record or history of misconduct. This helps employers to make informed decisions about who they hire and protect their business from any risks associated with hiring individuals with a criminal record.
What Does Brexit Have To Do With It?
Brexit has had an effect on the way employers carry out their DBS check and safeguarding processes. Since leaving the EU, UK organisations can no longer access European Criminal Records (ECR) which restricts the scope of information provided in a standard check. This makes cross border checks much more difficult.
ECRs contain details of convictions and cautions issued in other EU countries, which means that employers no longer have access to this data in order to assess potential employees’ suitability for positions.
In other words, organisations must take extra steps when carrying out their vetting processes and consider using other methods such as obtaining references from previous employers or contacting referees directly.
3 Steps to Adapt To Brexit Changes To DBS Checks
There are 3 main steps you can take to adapt to DBS Check changes brought about by Brexit:
- Research changes – Organisations should firstly ensure they are aware of all the changes brought about by Brexit when it comes to carrying out DBS checks on potential employees.
- Seek expert advice – It is beneficial to speak with an expert who can advise on how best to prepare for any changes in legislation or regulations that may occur due to Brexit. We can help with that – contact an expert today.
- Use additional background checks – Companies should also consider utilising additional sources of information beyond just DBS checks when conducting background screenings of potential employees. This can help to provide further insight into an individual’s character and behaviour.
Summary
Brexit has had a significant impact on many aspects of life in the UK. This includes how organisations conduct their background screening processes.
Employers need to keep the Brexit DBS Check changes at the forefront of their minds. Further checks on potential employees are important to make informed decisions when hiring. The main change is that UK businesses and background checkers can no longer access European Criminal Records. Companies still need to mitigate any risks associated with employing someone with a criminal record or history of misconduct.
Therefore, businesses should consider utilising additional sources of information beyond just DBS checks. Other background screenings can help to provide insight into an individual’s character and behaviour. It may be important to look for criminal records held outside the UK or Europe.
With these tips in mind, you can rest easy knowing you’re doing everything you can do properly vet people. To ask any questions you may have related to DBS Checks, get in touch today.
