Different types of DBS certificates

DBS checks are carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service (also known as the DBS).

What types of DBS checks are there?

There are four different types of DBS checks: 

1. Basic DBS check
2. Standard DBS check
3. Enhanced DBS check
4. Enhanced with barred list(s) DBS check

Basic DBS checks

A basic DBS check will show any convictions and conditional cautions that are considered to be unspent. Individuals can apply for a basic check directly through the DBS website.

Standard DBS checks

A standard DBS check will show both spent and unspent convictions, as well as any cautions, reprimands and warnings that are held on the Police National Computer (PNC).

Enhanced DBS checks

An enhanced DBS check will contain the same information as a standard check, as well as any information provided by the Police, if they deem it relevant and proportionate to disclose the information. This type of check is the most relevant to those who work with children and/or vulnerable adults (e.g. as a teacher or as a nurse) in regulated activity. It is also suitable to those who hold a Taxi License.

An enhanced DBS check may also be relevant for specific roles outside regulated activity, such as those in the Gambling Commission (e.g. working in a licensed premises where gambling takes places), those in the Army (e.g. those who handle weapons on a daily basis) and those who work in security (e.g. a security guard at a club).

Enhanced with barred list(s) DBS checks

An enhanced with barred lists check is very similar to an enhanced DBS check, but it will also include a check of one or both barred lists (i.e. the children’s and/or the adults’ barred list) if it is relevant to do so.   

When is an enhanced with barred list(s) DBS check relevant?

If your role involves you being alone or in very close contact/proximity with vulnerable adults and/or children, your employer will most likely apply for this type of check to ensure that you have not been barred from working with these groups by the DBS. Such roles include those in teaching, nursing and those who work in the care sector.

To give an example, if you have been barred from working with children and you apply to work with vulnerable adults, your employer will apply for this type of check. This will involve checking your name against the adult’s barred list to ensure you are legally able to work with adults. Your employer should not check your name against the children’s barred list as you have not applied to work with children.

If you require an enhanced DBS check for non-regulated activity roles, your employer will not check your name against the barred lists. This means that if you have been previously barred from working with children and/or vulnerable adults, you will still be able to obtain an enhanced check for non-regulated roles.

Olliers Solicitors – Specialist Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) Lawyers

At Olliers, we have a Specialist DBS team who are here to listen, empathise, understand and assist with your case. 

Please contact our DBS department  on 0161 834 1515, by email to dbs@olliers.com or complete the form below to discuss how Olliers can assist you if you have a query in relation to a DBS Check.