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 show?
Basic DBS Checks
Basic DBS checks show all of the applicant’s Unspent Convictions and Conditional Cautions.
Standard DBS Checks
Standard DBS checks show all of the applicant’s convictions (spent & unspent), all cautions, reprimands, and warnings – regardless of severity, or how long ago they occurred.
Enhanced DBS Checks
These contain the same information as Standard checks, but also include 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 two main reasons for there being 3 distinct levels of DBS check:
- 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 making judgements based on historical convictions. - Associated Costs – The different levels of check require different amounts of time and labour from Umbrella Bodies, the DBS, and the UK police.
Since employers aren’t allowed to ask everybody for the same background information anyway, it makes sense to differentiate the prices, too.
Where can I get a DBS check?
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 feel free to get in touch with us at contact@aaronsdepartment.com if you have any questions.
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.