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All the resources you need to complete your background checking application

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A Comprehensive Guide to DBS Checks for Music Tutors and Agencies

Understanding DBS checks is essential for music tutors and agencies. They play a vital role in safeguarding within the music education sector. This guide explores the importance of DBS checks in music education, detailing the different types, application process, and the role they play in safeguarding vulnerable groups.

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DBS Checks, Criminal Records, Recruitment James Parkinson DBS Checks, Criminal Records, Recruitment James Parkinson

How Long Does It Take To Get A Clear Criminal Record?

This article answers a common question: "How long does it take to get a clear criminal record?" It discusses how criminal records are retained, what shows up on DBS Checks, the meaning of 'spent' and 'unspent' convictions, and how offences are filtered. Plus, it offers guidance on accessing your own criminal record.

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James Parkinson James Parkinson

What Is A PVG Check And What Do They Show? 

Criminal record checks in Scotland are slightly different to the rest of the UK. In Scotland, the PVG Scheme is used to enable employers to carry out criminal record checks on individuals working in the country. Here we look at what a PVG Check is in more detail.

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Basic DBS Checks James Parkinson Basic DBS Checks James Parkinson

Do I Need a DBS Check as a Landlord?

DBS Checks are needed for all sorts of licences and this includes certain licences that you might need as a landlord. Although there’s no legal requirement to have a DBS Check carried out, certain local authorities state them as a requirement. In this guide, we look at what DBS Checks you might need as a landlord.

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DBS Info James Parkinson DBS Info James Parkinson

How long does a DBS Check take?

One of the most common questions our team is asked is, how long does a DBS Check take? The answer can vary depending on a number of things, what level of DBS, how it was submitted and many more. In this article, we outline everything you need to know.

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DBS Info James Parkinson DBS Info James Parkinson

DBS Checks, ID and Documents

Identity documents are a fundamental requirement for a DBS Check. Applicants need to provide ID before a DBS Check can start. In this guide, we give an overview of what documents are needed for DBS Checks, as well as the ID Verification process.

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What Background Checks do I need for SMCR (Senior Management & Certification Regime)?

The Senior Management and Certification Regime (SMCR) requires FCA and PRA regulated firms to properly assess the fitness of their employees. Background checks are a big part of this. Here we look at exactly what checks you need to be compliant under the SMCR.

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Frequently asked questions

 

Who are the DBS?

The DBS formed after the merge of the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) in December 2012. They are a non-departmental government body and are responsible for carrying out criminal record checks, as well as maintaining the Child and Adult Barred lists.  

Personnel Checks are a DBS Umbrella Body authorised to process DBS Check applications of all levels.

What is a DBS Check?

A DBS Check or Disclosure is the name given to the three types of criminal record check available to organisations and individuals. The level of DBS Check determines how much of someone’s criminal record history is checked and then disclosed on the certificate.  

Organisations can apply for BasicStandard or Enhanced DBS Checks for their employees or volunteers. The level of check required would depend on the eligibility of a specific job role.

How long does a DBS Check take?  

Turnaround times can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances and various other factors. The Disclosure and Barring Service advise that a normal processing time for any level of check is 6-8 weeks.  

Most checks don’t take that long, particularly not the ones we submit. On average, the processing times for our DBS application submissions are as follows:  

Basic DBS – 24-48hrs  

Standard DBS – 5-7 days  

Enhanced DBS – 10-14 days  

This average is collated from the tens of thousands of checks we do annually but can never be guaranteed.

How often should I renew my organisations DBS Checks?

A general best practice is to run DBS Checks on your employees every three years.  

Although people commonly talk about renewals of DBS Checks, it’s not something you can do per se. Every time a check is carried out on someone it is a completely new check and has no bearing on any previously issued.  

In some industries, there are specific rules on how often you must check your staff. It is important to familiarise yourself with any regulatory requirements to ensure your organisation’s compliance.

How can I track my DBS Check?  

Easy! All you’ll need is the applicant's name, date of birth and application reference. Follow the corresponding link below and enter the requested information. You’ll then be given a status update about the application:  

Enhanced, Standard & Volunteer DBS Tracking  

Basic DBS Tracking  

Who receives the DBS Certificate?  

When a DBS Check is completed the certificate is posted out directly to the applicant's current address, as it appears on the application form.  

The exception to this is the Basic DBS Check. Applicants have the option to either, provide a ‘care of’ address for the certificate to be posted to, or, have the option to receive the result information only by email.  

What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service is a means for applicants to register the details of their DBS Certificate. This information is then kept updated by the DBS and can be shared with potential employers. This is a subscription service run by the DBS at £13pa.  

Anyone who has had a DBS Check completed can sign up to the DBS Update Service. This needs to be done while the DBS Check is in progress, or within 30 days of its issue.  

Only the named person on the DBS certificate can sign up to the DBS Update Service. An employer or organisation would be unable to do this on their behalf.  

How do I reset my login details?

If you have forgotten your password, there is a ‘Forgot Password’ option on Login page. Simply navigate to this site, https://app.personnelchecks.co.uk/login. Select the button which says “Forgot your username/password?”.

Once selected, you will be asked to enter the email address associated with your account. Once submitted, an email will be sent to you with fresh login details and you should then be able to log in.  

If you’re having difficulty with this process, you can drop us an email at letstalk@personnelchecks.co.uk or give us a call on 01254 35568.

What is meant by ‘eligibility’?

Eligibility is what determines the level of check that is appropriate for any given job role. To obtain the Standard, Enhanced, or Volunteer DBS Check, an applicant would need to meet certain eligibility criteria.  

Eligibility is a constantly evolving area of guidance and can be hard to keep track of. The DBS do offer comprehensive guidance documents, here, but they can be hard to decipher if you aren’t familiar with the legislation.  

It’s best to be sure you are buying the right check for your needs. We recommend looking at our Ultimate Guide to Eligibility before purchasing any DBS Checks online.  

All our advisors understand how confusing eligibility can be so if you are still unsure, get in touch! You can drop us an email to letstalk@personnelchecks.co.uk or give us a call on 01254 35568.

What is ID verification?  

ID verification is a major aspect of the DBS application process. This is the final stage of the application before it is submitted and the DBS Check begins.  

It is your responsibility as an employer carrying out criminal record checks to confirm the identity of any DBS applicants. It is also a vital way to check for potential errors in an application form.  

For a full breakdown of how to carry out ID verification accurately, you can check out our Ultimate Guide to ID Verification. You can find the most up to date guidance from the DBS, here.

What ID documents can I accept in support of applications?  

For Basic DBS applications, you must select and verify two documents from the list below:  

Valid Documents List – Basic DBS  

For Standard, Enhanced and Volunteer DBS applications, you must select and verify three documents from the list below:  

Valid Documents List – Standard, Enhanced & Volunteer