What is meant by “Appropriate DBS Checks”?
DBS Checks are an extremely important way of doing a criminal background check.
Employers who do not get their employees to submit the correct DBS Check could face some serious consequences. If a member of staff is fired because they are likely to cause harm or they have already done so, failing to report them to the Disclosure and Barring Service is a criminal offence.
A company or organisation can report, or refer, an individual when they think that the person has caused harm, put children or a vulnerable adult at risk, or has received a warning or conviction for an offence. If the reported individual is either currently engaged in a regulated activity or will be in the future then the DBS may see that adding the individual onto the barred list is beneficial.
In this article, we will explain what an appropriate DBS Check is, if they are needed, and if so, when? Also, are old DBS Checks valid? Read on to find out more.
When are DBS Checks suitable?
DBS Checks are extremely common within many fields of work. Engaging in a regulated activity like working with or around children or vulnerable adults, means that you will most probably be eligible for a check.
Legality in DBS Checks
The ROA, Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the following (Exceptions) Order 1975, both say that certain professions, jobs and activities need a DBS Check.
If the two previously mentioned pieces of legislation, or the Police Act 1997, mention that an individual’s profession requires a Check, it means that screening is necessary.
However, there have been several changes to the acts over time, so not everything in there will be true, although they are for the most part accurate. Checks are necessary for staff as they make sure that nobody who is listed in any barred list gets hired, which helps to prevent harm or damage to the clients, staff or organisation.
Can DBS Checks get too old to be valid?
In short, DBS Checks do not last forever and so each time an employer requires a DBS Check to be in place, they must mention how long they need the certificate for and when re-checks should be done and how they are used. Depending on the role and employer, they will decide on whatever they think is suitable for that role.
The information revealed on a DBS certificate is only accurate at the date of issue, so decisions made based on old DBS checks are done with discretion.
Some bodies must renew DBS Checks within specific periods of time. However, if it is not mandatory, it is recommended to redo the checks around every 1-3 years. Also, in some organisations like Ofsted, if the person switches positions within the same organisation, they may have to apply for another check.
To find out more about DBS checks or ask any questions, get in touch with one of our trusted advisors today.
