How Do I Apply for a DBS Check as a Volunteer?
If you’re volunteering, you may need a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before you start your role. A DBS Check is a type background check that reveals any criminal records an individual may have. These checks help organizations make safe recruitment decisions, particularly when volunteers work with children or vulnerable adults.
However, not all volunteer roles require the same level of DBS Check. Some volunteers will need an Enhanced DBS Check (often called a Volunteer DBS in this context), while others may only require a Basic DBS Check. In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between the two, who needs which type, and how to apply.
What is a DBS Check and Why Do Volunteers Need One?
A DBS Check (Disclosure and Barring Service Check) reviews a person’s criminal record and helps organizations ensure they are recruiting suitable individuals for certain roles. There are two types of DBS Checks relevant to volunteers:
1. Enhanced DBS Check (For Regulated Activity) – Free from the DBS
Required for volunteers working in regulated activity (e.g., unsupervised work with children or vulnerable adults).
The DBS does not charge for these checks. However, a small administration fee is usually charged for processing.
You need to meet the DBS’ definition of a true volunteer.
The DBS definition of a true volunteer is very specific. They class a volunteer as someone who answers ‘No’ to the following four questions:
Is the applicant in receipt of any payment (except for travel and other approved out-of-pocket expenses)?
Is the applicant on a Placement/Work Experience?
Is the applicant on a course that requires them to do this job role?
Is the applicant in a trainee position that will lead to a full-time role/qualification?
This definition is derived from The Police Act 1997 (Criminal Records) Regulations 2002 and is non-negotiable.
2. Basic DBS Check (For Non-Regulated Activity) – Standard DBS Fee Applies
Needed if a volunteer role does not involve regulated activity but an organization still requires a background check.
Shows only unspent convictions and does not include Barred List checks.
Unlike Enhanced DBS Checks, the DBS still charges for this level of check, and costs vary depending on the provider.
Your charity or volunteering organization should inform you whether you need an Enhanced DBS Check or a Basic DBS Check.
Who Needs Which DBS Check?
This isn’t a straightforward question. Although anybody can apply for a Basic DBS Check, there is extensive guidance from the DBS dictating who can have the higher levels of DBS Check. Below is a rough guide, but this should not be treated as legal advice as each role can be different:
You need an Enhanced DBS Check if your role involves:
Working unsupervised with children or vulnerable adults.
Providing healthcare or personal care services.
Supervising individuals engaged in regulated activity.
Certain positions in schools, care homes, or hospitals.
You need a Basic DBS Check if:
Your volunteering role does not involve regulated activity, but your organization still wants background checks.
You are volunteering in an administrative role or handling finances.
The organization requires a general background check as part of their policies.
These criteria are by no means exhaustive and the organisation that you are volunteering with should know which check they need to apply for. We’ll look at how to apply in more detail in the next section.
How to Apply for a Volunteer DBS Check
Step 1: Confirm Which DBS Check You Need
Your charity or volunteer organization will tell you if an Enhanced DBS Check or a Basic DBS Check is required.
Step 2: Application Process
Regardless of which type of DBS Check you need, the application process is broadly the same. You will either be provided with a paper application form, or, be sent an email with an account creation process allowing you to complete a digital application. The key difference here is that:
Enhanced DBS Checks must be applied for by the organization on your behalf. Volunteers cannot apply directly.
Basic DBS Checks can be applied for individually or through the organization (if you need one, you can apply here).
Step 3: Provide Your Information
Once you have completed your application form with your personal information, you’ll need to supply:
Proof of identity (e.g., passport, driving license).
Proof of address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement).
Details of your volunteering role.
Step 4: Identity Verification
Your organization will check your documents before submitting your application to the DBS.
Step 5: Wait for Processing & Receive Your Certificate
Basic DBS Checks typically take 1-2daysto process.
Enhanced DBS Checks can take 2–6 weeks, dependent on demand.
You’ll receive a paper certificate in the post, which you must share with your organization.
Need help?
If you’ve been referred to Personnel Checks by a charity or nonprofit that you are volunteering with, give us a call, and we’ll guide you through the process. Our team is happy to answer any questions and ensure you get the right check for your role.