Standard DBS Service
A Standard DBS Check, also referred to as a Standard Disclosure Check (formerly known as a Standard CRB Check), is an essential background screening tool that reviews an individual's criminal history and police records to disclose any unspent convictions. In the context of criminal record checks, an "unspent" conviction refers to a conviction that is still considered relevant and may legally be disclosed to employers or other requesting bodies. Convictions become "spent" after a designated period has elapsed, depending on the severity of the offense and the sentence imposed. Once a conviction is spent, it is typically removed from the individual’s record, although certain serious offenses, such as those involving children or vulnerable individuals, may remain permanently on the record.
The time it takes for a conviction to become spent varies according to the type of offense and sentence. For example, conditional cautions have a minimum period of three months before they are considered spent. It's important to note, however, that a Standard DBS Check does not include a check of the barred list, which is a list of individuals who are prohibited from working with vulnerable groups, such as children and adults in need of care.
Unlike some other levels of DBS checks, the Standard DBS Check is available for a wide range of purposes. Although it is not always a mandatory requirement for all job roles, employers can still request a Standard DBS Check as part of their recruitment policy to assess the suitability of potential employees. This is particularly common in roles where safeguarding concerns or professional standards are important but may not legally require an Enhanced DBS Check. Additionally, a Standard DBS Check is often required in certain regulated professions, including those of taxi drivers, healthcare professionals such as doctors and nurses, and individuals applying for alcohol licenses. In some instances, it may also be necessary for obtaining visas, depending on the requirements of the country in question.
At Making a Difference, we offer a comprehensive Standard Disclosure service designed to help organizations obtain the necessary background checks for their current staff or potential employees. In light of increasing compliance requirements and a growing emphasis on workplace safety, there has been a notable rise in the number of employers requesting Standard DBS Checks. This proactive approach helps organizations safeguard their environment from potential internal threats and demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a secure and trustworthy workforce.
By incorporating DBS checks as part of the hiring process, employers can streamline recruitment and ensure they meet legal and regulatory obligations, especially in sensitive sectors. Our Standard Disclosure service is straightforward, ensuring a seamless experience for both the employer and the individual undergoing the check. Additionally, as the process is open to anyone, it offers a valuable resource for individuals seeking roles where trust and integrity are paramount.
With Making a Difference, organizations can rely on a smooth, efficient, and compliant process for obtaining Standard DBS Checks, supporting both organizational safety and the well-being of employees and clients.
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 Standard DBS Check With Us
A Standard 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.
Registered, Vetted & Insured
Strong Partnerships With Leading Brands
Clients around the world who choose making a difference's background check solutions to help hire, onboard, and monitor employees globally.
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 Standard 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 Standard DBS Check for yourself, you can find out more information about Standard 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
Standard DBS
£23.00