From Schools to Care Homes: A Guide to DBS Checks for Contractors
In the UK, contractors often find themselves working in a variety of environments, from schools and hospitals to construction sites and courts.
Given the diverse nature of these settings, it's crucial for contractors and the organisations they work for to understand the importance of Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.
These checks help safeguard vulnerable groups by preventing unsuitable people from working with them. This article provides a comprehensive guide to DBS checks for contractors in different sectors.
Understanding DBS Checks
DBS checks are a form of background check conducted by the Disclosure and Barring Service. They are designed to check the criminal record of an individual, providing a certificate that details any criminal convictions or cautions.
There are three main levels of DBS checks: Basic, Standard, and Enhanced.
A Basic DBS Check details any unspent convictions the applicant may have.
A Standard DBS Check shows any spent or unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, or final warnings.
An Enhanced DBS Check shows all of the above, plus any information deemed relevant by the applicant’s local police force.
While there's no legal requirement for all contractors to have a DBS check, it's considered good practice, especially when working in sensitive environments.
Below we’ll look at some of the more common situations where contractors may need a DBS Check
Contractors in Schools
Contractors working in schools generally need an Enhanced DBS check. Any contractor working on a school site more than three times in a 30-day period during term time must have this check carried out.
If the contractor in question is supervised by a member of the school staff whilst on site, then just an Enhanced DBS Check is needed. If there is any possibility that the contractor would have unsupervised access to children, then an Enhanced DBS Check with a search of the Children’s Barred List would be needed.
However, during school holidays, when no students are present, a Basic DBS check would suffice.
Contractors in Care Homes
Like schools, care homes have their own safeguarding measures in place. If contractors are working in an adult care home regularly, then an Enhanced DBS Check should be requested.
Although uncommon, some situations call for a contractor to have a search of the Adult’s Barred List on their Enhanced DBS Check. This would usually be for specialised medical equipment contractors, who will be directly supporting residents.
For contractors working in children's residential care, an Enhanced DBS Check with a search of the Children’s Barred List is required.
Contractors in Hospitals
The level of DBS check required for contractors in hospitals depends on the nature of the job and where the work will be taking place.
If a contractor has access to patient wards, they would be eligible for a Standard DBS Check. If work is being carried out specifically on a children's ward, or, at a children’s hospital then an Enhanced DBS Check will be needed.
However, if the work is carried out in an area where contact with patients is incidental, a check may not be required.
Contractors in Courts
The DBS Check needed for contractors working on courts can vary.
In most cases, they would be eligible for a Standard check. This could be because, in the course of their work, they have face-to-face contact with judges of the Supreme Court, have access to judges’ lodgings, attend the Royal Courts of Justice, the Central Criminal Court, or have unsupervised access to courthouses and offices.
However, in certain cases, an Enhanced DBS Check could be required. For example, if contractors were working at a Crown Court during a high-profile case. If the case was considered important to national security, then the Ministry of Justice or Crown Prosecution Service may dictate that an Enhanced DBS Check is needed.
Construction and Trade Contractors
For construction and trade contractors, a Basic DBS check is usually sufficient unless they are working in a sensitive environment like those mentioned above.
Basic DBS Checks can be a useful tool for self-employed contractors as well, as they allow you to demonstrate your integrity and reliability. You can apply for a Basic DBS Check for yourself in as little as 5 minutes, just click here.
Applying for a DBS Check
Applying for a DBS check is a straightforward process. The company supplying the contractor typically requests the DBS check.
Once the appropriate level of DBS check is determined, the contractor is sent an application form to complete, which involves providing certain personal information and details of previous convictions if any.
When it comes to DBS checks for contractors, it's essential to remember:
Always check the eligibility criteria before applying for a check.
The level of check will depend on where the contractor will be working and how often.
If unsure, always contact the organisation you are contracting for.
All contractors can have a Basic DBS check if not eligible for a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check.
DBS checks are an essential part of safeguarding, especially in environments where contractors may come into contact with vulnerable groups.
While not always legally required, they are recommended as they demonstrate an organisation's commitment to safety and best practice. By understanding the different levels of DBS checks and when they are required, contractors and organisations can ensure they are meeting their responsibilities and maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
Found this article helpful? Share it with others who might find it useful too. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to get in touch. Remember, safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. Let's work together to create safer environments for all.