Introduction: Does A Postman Need A DBS Check?
If you wish to be a postman or postwoman, you will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Types of DBS Checks:
There are three main types of DBS checks:
Enhanced DBS checks come with an optional check of the Barred Lists, which determines whether the applicant is permitted to work with Children or Vulnerable Adults.
To be eligible for a Barred List check, individuals must be engaged in regulated activity with either children or Vulnerable Adults. However, being a Postman doesn’t involve any regulated activity, so it’s not something you need to worry about.
For more information on Barred List checks, you can read one of our latest articles, Understanding Barred List Checks.
Does A Postman Need A DBS Check? – What Check Will A Postman Need?
For postal workers, a Basic DBS check is required, but this is at the employers’ discretion – it isn’t a legal requirement, like in other roles such as childcare or healthcare.
Basic check certificates disclose unspent criminal convictions and conditional cautions, which when shown to the employer can help them assess the applicant’s suitability for the role. For example, the Royal Mail group will not employ anybody with unspent convictions for fraud, theft, arson, and more.
A Basic DBS Check is the highest level of check that a postman/postwoman can undergo, as Standard & Enhanced checks have strict eligibility requirements.
Does A Postman Need A DBS Check? Legal Framework:
The 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act outlines the need for DBS checks and specifies the type required for different positions, including postal services.
Conclusion – Does A Postman Need A DBS Check?
Prospective postmen and postwomen will usually need to undergo a DBS check as part of the hiring process, as most employers in that sector have it as company policy to request a Basic DBS check for new hires.
The requirement for a Basic DBS check for postal workers shows a commitment to public safety. Undertaking DBS checks for postal staff ensures that individuals with certain criminal histories are identified during the recruitment process, maintaining trust in those delivering mail across the country.
If you are an employer looking for DBS Checks for employees, you can find out more information below or give us a call on 0113 877 0171
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About The Author
Matthew Dugdale
Matthew is our go-to when it comes to all things related to Recruitment & DBS checks. His experience and expertise helps make sure that everyone gets the correct level of check.