Everything You Need to Know About Basic DBS Checks

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If you want to process a simple DBS check and are unsure about what a basic one is, we have created a guide with all the essential information to help you when processing your request.


What Is a Basic DBS Check?

Basic criminal checks are usually necessary for applicants who are not required to have a higher-level DBS check conducted. Although this type of check is similar to a basic disclosure with regards to the information provided relating to their criminal record, it does reflect the change in the actual processing component of the check. Nevertheless, it still will provide employers with details about convictions and/or conditional cautions that are currently unspent.

An unspent conviction is one that under the terms of Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 must be disclosed as it is still within the time frame imposed when the sentence was handed down. If candidates work and/or live in England or Wales, then basics checks will be conducted by the DBS. In Scotland, checks are processed by Disclosure Scotland. Candidates in Northern Ireland will have their checks processed via AcessNI.

Eligibility for Basic DBS Checks

A basic check can be requested by an employer for any candidate or employee in a situation where a higher-level check is not required. However, there are no requirements with regards to who is eligible for a basic check; it can be used for any role and any applicant and for any purpose.

If you’re still unsure about who you should put forward for a check (at any level), use the DBS eligibility tool that can be accessed here: https://www.gov.uk/find-out-dbs-check.

How to Request a Check

It’s quite a simple task to conduct a basic DBS check, with companies such as http://www.carecheck.co.uk/basic-dbs-checks/ providing a hassle-free service. They will handle the entire procedure, making it easy for you to apply for a check.

Once a vetting request has been processed, employers will be informed by email. They will then be able to download an employee’s DBS certificate (from the online site) to keep on record. When higher-level checks are conducted, employees will be mailed (to their home address) their DBS certificate.

If you still have questions, do get in touch and we’d be happy to help.

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