A Basic DBS check (also known as a Basic Disclosure Check or previously, a Basic CRB Check) is a background check into an individual’s history and police records in order to reveal any unspent convictions. A conviction becomes ‘spent’ after a certain amount of time has elapsed, at which point the offender’s record is updated, and crimes are typically removed (some serious crimes, such as those involving children or other vulnerable members of society, may remain).

How long this is depends on the type of offence and the sentence given, however the minimum period of time for a conviction to become ‘spent’ is 3 months, and applies specifically to conditional cautions. A Basic DBS check will not check the barred list.

A Basic DBS Check is available to anyone for any reason. For example, if you are applying for a specific job role that doesn’t require a DBS check, your potential employer can still request this level of disclosure as part of their employment policy. A Basic DBS Check is also required in order to apply for an alcohol licence and in some cases, a visa.

Making a Difference offer a Basic Disclosures service for organisations that need to obtain basic background checks for their staff, or potential employees. Increased compliance has caused a rise in the number of employers requesting different levels of DBS checks, especially Basic DBS Disclosures, to ensure safety within the workplace and to protect their organisation from possible internal threats. It also makes for a smooth recruitment process. The process is simple, and anyone is eligible.

How It Works ?

Step 1

Select Service

Select the DBS check that meets the employer's specific requirements and proceed to checkout.

Step 2

Application

Fill and complete the application form and submit it along with the applicable fee, make sure that the information you submit is correct and comprehensive, as any errors or omissions could cause your application to be delayed.

Step 3

Results

Upon submission, you will receive a confirmation receipt along with a reference number that allows you to track the status of your application. Your DBS certificate will be delivered via your selected method.

A Basic DBS Check With Us

A Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check can be a crucial step towards a robust employment screening program for many employers. This is particularly the case where a role involves working with vulnerable populations or positions of trust and may include roles for employers within education, healthcare, financial services, and government organisations amongst others.

The Right Choice For Your DBS Checks

Making a Difference is a Responsible Organisation (RO) meaning we are registered with the DBS to submit basic checks through their web service. Additionally, when you partner with us, we:

  •  Deliver fast, accurate check results – through secure and easy to use experiences.
  •  Highlight best practice considerations for your screening program – with criminology experts available to discuss discovered convictions.
  •  Provide customized implementation – our experienced Client Success team will work with you.

Basic DBS Check

A Basic Disclosure is available to any individual applying for or already employed in a position. The Basic Disclosure certificate will contain details of convictions (and conditional cautions in England and Wales) that are considered to be unspent under the terms of the applicable Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA).
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Basic DBS
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Frequently Asked Questions

There is no general rule here. On occasions the applicant will pay for the check whilst in other cases the Organisation that is requesting the check may reimburse you in your first pay check.

These are lists maintained by the DBS of individuals who are barred from working with either children or vulnerable adults, or both. Individuals working in regulated activity with either of these vulnerable groups will require a check against the relevant barred list.

We complete DBS Checks within 48 hours on average. However, while the majority of DBS online checks are complete within this timeframe, some may take longer depending on how long the DBS and police take to process the application.

The information provided during a DBS Check is accurate at the time the check is carried out, and whilst DBS certificates don’t officially expire, employers need to decide if the amount of time that has elapsed since the check was carried out means a new one is required. There may be a requirement for re-checking as determined by a governing body or professional organisation.

A Basic Disclosure is a background check that will show all unspent convictions. It can be requested by an individual, or by a potential employer with the applicant’s permission. If you are an individual living or working in England & Wales and you wish to apply for a Basic DBS Check for yourself, you can find out more information about Basic Checks and how to obtain them – here.

DBS certificates do not have an expiry date, only a start date. If you still have your certificate to hand, it is at your employer’s discretion to say if it is valid or whether they would need you to apply for a new DBS certificate

BASIC DBS

£19.00
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