DBS Checks
DBS checks are essential for businesses, but they don’t have to be time-consuming or costly. Choosing CBS ensures a faster, easier process that works for you.
Buy DBS Checks Online
DBS checks are crucial for safeguarding your business, but they shouldn’t take up all your time. At CBS, we take care of the hard work, freeing up your valuable time. Explore our full range of DBS checks below to find the service that suits your needs.
Basic DBS Checks
A straightforward check suitable for non-job-specific purposes, applied for on behalf of employees.
Standard DBS Checks
The ‘standard’ disclosure detailing all criminal history, warnings, reprimands and convictions.
Enhanced DBS Checks
Includes Standard Checks plus access to barred lists and relevant police-held information.
Digital ID Verification
Use our Digital ID Service to verify identities for DBS and Right-to-Work checks.
International Background Checks
Screen candidates and employees worldwide with our reliable International Disclosure services.
DBS Update Service
Receive instant notifications of any changes to employees’ criminal records.
Our solutions guarantee 100% submission rate with zero errors
Types of DBS Checks
Basic
Basic level disclosure – this is a non-specific check that is available to anyone who requires certification. Basically, it is available to anyone for any purpose. It is commonly used for personal licence holders, couriers or similar.Disclosure Scotland produce this level of Disclosure, as well as the DBS from June 2017.
Unspent Criminal Convictions
Spent Criminal Convictions
Inclusion on the Children’s Barred List
Inclusion on the Adult’s Barred List
Inclusion on List 99 – Section 142 Education Act 2002
Other Relevant Information held by local police forces (Soft Intelligence forces disclosed at Chief Police officer’s discretion)
Standard
Standard level disclosure – this level of disclosure is subject to eligibility in accordance to legislative criteria. This more in-depth check is often required for careers such as accountants or solicitors.
Unspent Criminal Convictions
Spent Criminal Convictions
Inclusion on the Children’s Barred List
Inclusion on the Adult’s Barred List
Inclusion on List 99 – Section 142 Education Act 2002
Other Relevant Information held by local police forces (Soft Intelligence forces disclosed at Chief Police officer’s discretion)
Enhanced
Enhanced level disclosure – this detailed check is also subject to eligibility in accordance to legislative criteria. Individuals who wish to work with vulnerable people will require this disclosure.
Unspent Criminal Convictions
Spent Criminal Convictions
Inclusion on the Children’s Barred List
Inclusion on the Adult’s Barred List
Inclusion on List 99 – Section 142 Education Act 2002
Other Relevant Information held by local police forces (Soft Intelligence forces disclosed at Chief Police officer’s discretion)
What does DBS stand for?
DBS stands for ‘Disclosure and Barring Service.’ This agency, part of the UK Home Office, conducts background checks to support safer hiring decisions.
What is a DBS Check?
A DBS Check reviews an individual’s criminal record, including convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. Depending on the role, it may also check the children’s and adults’ barred lists or soft intelligence held by local police forces.
What is the Difference Between a CRB Check and a DBS Check?
A CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check was the predecessor to the DBS. Following the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, the DBS combined the functions of the CRB and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) to modernise the process.
Who can request a DBS check?
Employers and organisations can request DBS checks for roles that involve working with children or vulnerable adults or are exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Can individuals request a DBS Check?
No, individuals cannot request their own DBS check. However, CBS can assist with Basic DBS checks, which are suitable for non-job-specific purposes.
How long do DBS Checks take?
- Enhanced DBS: 95% completed within 4.5 working days.
- Standard DBS: 95% completed within 2 working days.
- Basic DBS: 95% completed within 1.5 working days.
Occasionally, delays may occur, but CBS works to expedite applications and minimise waiting times.
Who Pays for Disclosure Applications and How is This Done?
Employers typically cover the costs. CBS also offers an option for employees to pay directly if required.
What’s the Difference Between Spent and Unspent Criminal Convictions?
A spent conviction has reached a set period defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and has been removed from an individual’s criminal record. Its unspent counterpart has not reached this defined period yet and therefore will appear on DBS checks.
Why Do We Need DBS Checks?
DBS checks help employers make safer hiring decisions by identifying individuals unsuitable for specific roles, particularly those involving children or vulnerable adults.
Should We Request DBS Checks on Our Staff?
This depends on your industry and role requirements. Many organisations conduct Basic DBS checks for general roles and Enhanced DBS checks for roles involving vulnerable groups.
What is a DBS Adult First Check?
This expedited check provides a preliminary review of the Adults Barred List, allowing employers to assess suitability for roles involving vulnerable adults while waiting for a full Enhanced DBS check.
Who Receives the DBS Certificate?
The certificate is sent directly to the applicant, but CBS provides an online notification and full audit trail for employers.
What ID Documents Are Required to be Validated for a DBS Check?
ID validation is required for all checks. CBS recommends Route 1, using primary documents like a passport or driving licence, for faster processing.
How Do I Get a DBS Check for my Personal Licence?
A Basic DBS check is sufficient for obtaining a personal licence.
What Is an Exempted Question?
An ‘exempted question’ refers to when a registered body asks an individual to reveal their full criminal history, including spent convictions.
Why is soft intelligence included in some DBS checks?
Soft intelligence, such as police-held information that isn’t part of a conviction, is included in Enhanced DBS checks when relevant to the role.
What is a List 99 Check?
A List 99 check identifies individuals barred from working in educational settings. It is often included in Enhanced DBS checks for schools and childcare providers.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals
“CBS offers unparalleled customer service, responding to queries and solving issues efficiently, something we found lacking with our previous supplier. We feel like we have a really good partnership and that CBS genuinely wants to help us, not just saying what we want to hear.”
Bristol City Council
CBS has consistently proven to be knowledgeable, friendly, and efficient in their service to Bristol City Council. The support we receive and the opportunity to seek advice from professionals with their level of expertise is truly invaluable. Cerys and Sarah, in particular, stand out for going above and beyond in their support of our organisation. The entire CBS team deserves recognition for their exceptional work. Their support is greatly appreciated, and we value them not just as a supplier, but as people. As we look forward to continuing our partnership in 2024
FAW
CBS has proven to be an exceptional service partner, demonstrating remarkable responsiveness and a commitment to supporting our organizational needs. Our experience with their team has been consistently positive, characterized by their accommodating approach and willingness to provide tailored solutions. The account management has been outstanding, with CBS consistently delivering high-quality assistance. Rachel Bedgood have been particularly instrumental in supporting our organizational development and process improvements. CBS has shown a genuine commitment to understanding and addressing our specific requirements. We wholeheartedly recommend CBS as a trusted and reliable service provider. Their professional approach, combined with their genuine desire to support our organization, makes them an invaluable partner in our ongoing efforts to enhance our operational effectiveness. We look forward to continuing our collaborative relationship and exploring further opportunities for refinement and improvement together.
Wigan Council
Our overall perception of their services is very good, and we consistently value the account management we receive. What truly sets CBS apart is their outstanding customer support, particularly through their team member Rachel, who always provides quick and efficient responses to our inquiries. Her proactive approach ensures that our organisational needs are met promptly and professionally.
Why choose CBS?
We do things differently.
In today’s fast-paced business world, thousands of background screening checks are conducted daily. Businesses need fast, reliable and accurate results – yet the industry often makes the process unnecessarily complicated.
At CBS, we’re here to change that. We provide efficient, no-fuss background checks so you can focus on growing your business.
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