Enhanced DBS Check: A Comprehensive Guide

The Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a vital background check used in the UK to ensure that individuals working in sensitive roles, particularly with children and vulnerable adults, do not have a criminal history that makes them unsuitable for such positions. This article explores what an Enhanced DBS check is, how to apply for one, the required supporting documents, and how it differs from a Standard DBS check and an organisation’s internal background screening.
What Is an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS check is the most detailed level of criminal record check in the UK. It provides information on an individual’s spent and unspent convictions, cautions, warnings, and reprimands, as well as any additional information held by local police that is considered relevant to the role. Additionally, an Enhanced DBS check can include a check against the children’s and/or adults’ barred lists, which identify individuals who are legally prohibited from working with vulnerable groups.
This type of DBS check is essential for individuals in roles such as:
- Teachers and school staff
- Social workers
- Healthcare professionals
- Foster carers
- Volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults
- Taxi drivers and private hire drivers
Where to Apply for an Enhanced DBS Check?
Unlike a Basic DBS check, which individuals can apply for directly, an Enhanced DBS check must be requested by an employer or an organisation that is legally permitted to conduct such checks. Applications can be submitted through:
- The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) website – Employers and organisations can apply through registered DBS umbrella bodies.
- Umbrella bodies (DBS-registered agencies) – These third-party organisations assist employers in handling DBS applications.
- Local authorities or regulatory bodies – Certain professions, such as healthcare workers, may require applications through specific governing bodies.
How to Apply for an Enhanced DBS Check?
The process of applying for an Enhanced DBS check involves several steps:
Employer or Organisation Initiation
The employer or organisation must determine whether the role requires an Enhanced DBS check.
They must be registered with the DBS or use an umbrella body to submit the application.
Completing the Application Form
The applicant must provide personal details, including full name, address history for the last five years, date of birth, and National Insurance number.
The employer will complete the relevant sections of the form before submitting it.
Verification of Identity
The applicant must submit supporting documents to verify their identity (see the next section).
Processing and Police Checks
The DBS will process the application, check police records, and determine if any relevant information should be included.
Certificate Issuance
Once completed, the DBS will issue a certificate to the applicant. The employer may request to see the certificate before confirming employment.
Supporting Documents Required for an Enhanced DBS Check
Applicants must provide a set of documents to verify their identity. The DBS follows a three-tier verification system, and the applicant must provide documents from at least two groups:
- Primary Identity Documents (e.g., passport, driving licence, birth certificate)
- Proof of Address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement, council tax statement, mortgage statement)
- Financial or Government Documents (e.g., P60/P45, benefits statement)
If the applicant cannot provide sufficient documents from these groups, additional checks, such as fingerprinting, may be required.
Why Do We Need a Standard DBS Check?
A Standard DBS check is required for positions that involve trust and responsibility but do not necessarily involve working with children or vulnerable adults. It includes spent and unspent convictions, cautions, warnings, and reprimands but does not include police intelligence or checks against barred lists.
A Standard DBS check is often needed for roles such as:
- Accountants and finance professionals
- Solicitors and legal professionals
- Security industry workers
- Prison staff
While it is not as detailed as an Enhanced DBS check, a Standard DBS check still ensures that individuals in positions of trust have a clean criminal record history relevant to their role.
How Is an Enhanced DBS Check Different from an Organisation’s DBS Screening?
Organisations often conduct their own internal background checks, but these differ significantly from an official DBS check.
Aspect | Enhanced DBS Check | Organisation’s Internal Screening |
---|---|---|
Conducted by | The UK Government’s DBS agency | The employer or third-party screening service |
Includes police data? | Yes, includes spent/unspent convictions, warnings, and police intelligence | No, usually limited to employment history and references |
Barred list check? | Yes, can include checks against barred lists | No, does not provide information on barred individuals |
Legal requirement? | Mandatory for roles involving vulnerable groups | Not a legal requirement, but can be part of recruitment |
While some organisations may conduct their own pre-employment background checks, they do not replace a formal Enhanced DBS check. Employers in regulated sectors must follow legal guidelines and request the appropriate level of DBS check where required.
An Enhanced DBS check is the most detailed criminal record check available in the UK. It is crucial for roles involving children, vulnerable adults, and high-trust positions. The application process must be initiated by an employer or organisation, and applicants need to provide appropriate identity documents.
While a Standard DBS check is useful for roles that require a moderate level of trust, the Enhanced DBS check provides deeper scrutiny, including police intelligence and barred list checks. Unlike an organisation’s internal background screening, an Enhanced DBS check is legally recognised and provides critical safeguarding information.
Employers and applicants must ensure they follow the correct procedures when applying for an Enhanced DBS check to protect vulnerable individuals and maintain workplace integrity.