When applying for sensitive roles in the UK—especially those involving children, elderly individuals, or other vulnerable groups—an Enhanced DBS Check is often a legal and ethical necessity. These checks are an important part of the safeguarding process and help maintain trust in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and social care.

In this guide, we explore the importance of Enhanced DBS checks, who needs them, and how they differ from other types of criminal record checks.

What Is an Enhanced DBS Check?

An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check is the most detailed background check available in the UK. It reveals:

• All unspent and spent convictions
• Cautions, warnings, and reprimands
• Relevant police intelligence not part of the criminal record
• Children’s or Adults’ Barred List checks, if required for the role

This type of check ensures that people working in sensitive roles are suitable, responsible, and safe to be around vulnerable populations.

Comparing the Types of DBS Checks

There are three main types of DBS checks. Each offers a different level of scrutiny:

DBS Check Type	What It Covers	Suitable For
Basic	Unspent convictions	General employment, self-checks
Standard	Spent & unspent convictions, warnings, and cautions	Legal, financial, and some public service
Enhanced	Everything in Standard + relevant police info + barred lists	Teachers, carers, healthcare, volunteers

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Who Requires an Enhanced DBS Check?

This check is required for individuals in roles classed as regulated activity, including:

• School staff and teachers
• Healthcare professionals (e.g. nurses, GPs, paramedics)
• Care workers and support staff
• Volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults
• Sports coaches, religious leaders, and youth mentors
• Taxi drivers and local authority licensed transport staff

Employers are legally obligated to carry out these checks before hiring into such positions.

How to Get an Enhanced DBS Check

An individual cannot apply for this type of check on their own. Instead, it must be requested through:

• A registered employer
• A volunteer organisation
• An umbrella body (for freelancers and contractors)

Application Steps:

• Employer initiates the application
• Applicant submits ID and supporting documents
• DBS conducts checks via police databases and barring lists
• Certificate is issued to the applicant
• Applicant shares certificate with employer

Benefits of the DBS Update Service

The DBS Update Service is a subscription-based system that allows employers to check the status of a DBS certificate online. It costs £13 per year for employees and is free for volunteers.

Benefits include:

• No need to reapply for new checks every time you change jobs
• Real-time updates on certificate status
• Saves time and administrative costs for employers

Additional Factors in 2025

 Overseas Checks

If the applicant has lived abroad recently, they may be required to supply a criminal record check from that country.

Data Protection

Handling of DBS data must comply with UK GDPR laws to protect the privacy and security of personal information.

Renewal Guidance

Though DBS certificates don’t officially expire, many employers recommend updates every 1–3 years depending on role sensitivity.

Enhanced DBS Checks are an essential safeguard for protecting vulnerable members of society. Employers and individuals alike should understand their responsibilities in this process.

For a trusted and secure DBS check provider, visit crbdirect.org.uk. CRB Direct is authorised by the UK government to conduct criminal record and DBS checks across various sectors.