What are the differences between CRB and DBS Checks?

There are two background checks that most people are aware of, CRB and DBS Checks. The distinction between them can cause a lot of confusion. Both are criminal record checks but what is the difference between CRB and DBS Checks? 

What is a CRB Check? 

A CRB Check is a type of criminal record check that was carried out by the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). They were the main criminal record check carried out between 2002 and 2012. CRB Checks stopped being carried out in 2012, following the introduction of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). 

There are still many people out there who have CRB certificates, however, these would no longer be valid for employment.  

What is a DBS Check? 

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) was first introduced in 2012 when the CRB and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) were merged.  

This merger allowed criminal record checks to be carried out at the same time as checks against the Adults and Child’s Barred Lists. Previously these checks were carried out separately by the CRB and ISA respectively.  

DBS Check is a general term used to describe the checks carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service. They are also sometimes called Disclosures. 

What are the different types of DBS Check? 

There are three different levels of DBS Check; Basic, Standard and Enhanced.  

The Basic DBS Check is the lowest level of DBS Check and involves a search of the Police National Computer (PNC) for any unspent convictions or cautions. 

The Standard DBS Check also involves a search of the Police National Computer. It will search for spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings held on central police records.   

The Enhanced DBS Check includes all the information outlined above. They also include an optional search of any relevant Barred Lists (Adult, Child or Both). The Enhanced DBS Check will also include any notes from local police, which they consider relevant to the job role stated on the application form.  

What is the difference between a CRB and DBS Check? 

CRB Checks and DBS Check both serve the same purpose. They both provide employers with criminal record information, to help them recruit safely.  

The main difference is that a CRB Check was purely a check which looked at police data, like convictions. DBS Checks, on the other hand, can also include barring information.  

Fortunately, there’s no need to worry about getting confused between the two. All criminality checks now carried out in the UK are DBS Checks. All you need to determine, is what level of check is suitable for the roles you’re recruiting for.