Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks

The DBS helps employers make safer recruitment decisions and prevent unsuitable people from working with vulnerable groups

Overview

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) helps employers make safer recruitment decisions and prevent unsuitable people from working with vulnerable groups, including children. It replaces the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).

A DBS check may be needed for:

  • certain jobs or voluntary work, for example, working with children or in healthcare
  • applying to foster or adopt a child

Last reviewed: June 6, 2023 by William

Next review due: December 6, 2023

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