What Are The Three Types Of DBS Check? The three types of DBS checks are as follows:
- Basic DBS Checks
- Standard DBS Checks
- Enhanced DBS Checks – this level sometimes includes a check of the Barred List(s)
What do the three types of DBS checks reveal?
Basic DBS Checks
A Basic DBS check shows all the applicant’s Unspent Convictions and Conditional Cautions.
Standard DBS Checks
The Standard DBS check shows all the applicant’s convictions (spent & unspent), all cautions, reprimands, and warnings – regardless of severity, or how long ago they occurred.
Enhanced DBS Checks
The Enhanced DBS Check contains the same information as Standard checks, but also includes any extra information the UK police have on file for the applicant. The police will include this information at their discretion, but only if they deem it relevant for the role being applied for.
Click here to read more about the local police information included on Enhanced Checks.
Barred List Checks
For some roles, a check of the Adult’s Barred List and/or the Children’s Barred List. These are lists compiled by the DBS of individuals who are unsuitable for work with the respective groups. Certain criminal offences can lead to inclusion on the Barred Lists, which you can read more about here.
Why are there different levels of check?
There are different levels of check because different roles involve different levels of risk:
- The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 – this law relates to the term, “Exempted Questions”, and determines what information employers are legally allowed to ask an individual to provide.
This law is intended to make rehabilitation easier for ex-offenders by preventing employers from forcing people to reveal their spent convictions unnecessarily, and making judgements based on any historical convictions.
Enhanced and Standard Checks can only be applied for by an organisation via an umbrella body, such as Aaron’s Department. Anyone can apply for a Basic Check.
Why are DBS Checks priced differently? The different levels of check require different amounts of time and labour from Umbrella Bodies, the Disclosure and Barring Service, and the UK police.
Aaron’s Department is an Umbrella Body, specialising in providing DBS checks for employers. If you need checks for your staff, please do take a look around our website, and please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions.
Conclusion – What Are Three Types Of DBS Check?
In conclusion, when considering what are the three types of DBS check, it’s important to understand the distinct levels of scrutiny each one provides. The Basic DBS Check reveals unspent convictions and conditional cautions, making it suitable for most general purposes. The Standard DBS Check offers more comprehensive details, including spent convictions, cautions, and warnings. Finally, the Enhanced DBS Check goes even further, potentially including additional police information and checks against the Barred Lists for those working with vulnerable groups. Each level serves a specific role, depending on the risk and responsibilities associated with the position being applied for.
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.