28 October 2025
It’s autumn 2025, and compliance is no longer judged by what happens at hiring – […]
Read moreDBS Screening in Higher Education – How UniPro Helps Universities Stay Compliant and in Control
DBS screening in higher education isn’t just admin – it’s a core part of safeguarding and accountability. For universities running placement-based programmes in education, health or social care, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks are essential. They protect students, the public and the institution itself.
Each academic year, placement teams must complete hundreds – sometimes thousands – of DBS checks in time for course start dates, NHS placements or regulatory deadlines. But most are still relying on tools that were never designed for this level of complexity. Spreadsheets, shared drives, manual reminders – all of them prone to risk.
That’s where UniPro comes in – a screening platform built by CBS specifically for universities, designed to reduce the load while increasing confidence and compliance.
Why Screening Is Under More Scrutiny Than Ever
Until recently, student DBS screening sat in the background. Now it’s under the spotlight – with increased pressure from:
- NHS placement requirements
- Ofsted and safeguarding audits
- Departmental QA processes
- Student and parent expectations
Universities are expected to demonstrate not just that checks were done – but that they were appropriate, timely and traceable. In the event of an incident or audit, a broken process is no defence.
Where Traditional Processes Fall Short
We’ve worked with institutions handling thousands of checks in a term – often using outdated systems that cause delays, double work or risk data exposure.
Common issues include:
- Inconsistent documentation across departments
- Lack of audit-ready records for inspections
- Eligibility confusion over course vs. placement needs
- Student frustration with unclear timelines or instructions
- It’s a risk not just to compliance – but to reputation.
UniPro: A Platform Built for Higher Education
CBS created UniPro to address these challenges head-on. Unlike generic HR platforms, UniPro was designed around the unique needs of universities – where safeguarding isn’t just policy, it’s partnership.
With UniPro, institutions can:
- Invite entire student cohorts into a secure, guided DBS process
- Capture ID, right-to-work and consent in one place
- Track real-time progress by faculty, intake or course
- Validate international documentation where needed
- Generate audit reports instantly
- Integrate with CBS’s eBulk system for fast submission and turnaround
Built for Scale, Designed for Compliance
UniPro is built for universities managing placement-based programmes and high-volume safeguarding checks. Whether you’re screening 50 or 5,000 people, UniPro keeps your data safe, your process consistent and your team informed.
It supports:
- DBS, PVG, and Access NI checks for students in regulated roles
- Right to Work and identity verification for staff or in-house trainers
- International ID validation and overseas criminal record screening
- End-to-end screening for faculties delivering education, health or social care placements
From NHS placement leads, to internal QA teams, UniPro delivers compliance and control – backed by CBS’s specialist support whenever policies, legislation or eligibility rules change.
Why Students Notice the Difference Too
Screening can be daunting for students – particularly when it’s their first time. UniPro simplifies the experience: clear instructions, secure document uploads, real-time updates and responsive support.
The result? Fewer errors, faster clearances and a stronger student experience at a critical moment in their course.
Why Universities Choose CBS
CBS supports tens of thousands of DBS checks each year, working with colleges, universities and regulated institutions across the UK.
Trusted by higher education institutions across the UK, with UniPro you get:
- Education-specific onboarding
- Fast setup and tailored workflows
- UK-based support for staff and students
- GDPR-compliant document handling
- Sector-aligned expertise in compliance and safeguarding
Clients tell us UniPro is a big step up from what they used before – especially when handling large numbers. One university has already processed close to 3,000 checks this year using the system. Bulk uploads are quick, the platform is easy to use and support is always just a phone call away.
The CBS team is known for being helpful, responsive and knowledgeable – which makes a real difference when you’re under pressure. Universities like Anglia Ruskin, Essex and Teesside already trust us to keep their screening processes running smoothly.
CBS is more than a platform provider – we’re a partner in student safety and operational excellence.
Let’s Strengthen Your Screening Process
Whether you’re already using internal tools or looking to streamline an outdated system, UniPro offers an easier, safer way to manage DBS checks.
Want to see how UniPro could help your next intake?
Call CBS on 01443 799 900 or make an enquiry here to explore how the system could support your next student intake.
FAQs: UniPro and University DBS Checks
Is UniPro only for large institutions?
No – the platform supports universities, colleges and specialist providers of all sizes.
Can it handle different levels of DBS check?
Yes – Basic, Standard and Enhanced, depending on the eligibility for each course or placement.
What’s the setup time?
Most institutions are live within days, with full support from the CBS onboarding team.
Can we use it for staff, volunteers or visiting professionals?
Yes – UniPro is flexible and can support internal screening alongside student cohorts.
Does it support audit readiness?
Absolutely. All records are securely stored, date-stamped and easily retrievable for internal or external review.
