Since it was set up back in 2012, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has helped employers in England and Wales make better decisions about who to employ by carrying out Basic, Standard, and Enhanced DBS checks. While criminal record checks are usually associated with getting a new job, a common question is about whether you can use them to learn about the criminal history of a personal contact, particularly a romantic partner.
Getting a Criminal Record Check on Your Romantic Partner
Unfortunately, it is not possible to get a standard or enhanced DBS check on a partner or a family member for personal reasons. This sort of DBS check is generally reserved for work-related purposes only. Anyone can get a Basic DBS check which will reveal unspent convictions for any reason, but these have to be requested by the individual concerned. You can’t ask for a criminal record check on someone else.
Alternatives for Checking a Partner’s Background
If you’re concerned about your partner’s history whether criminal or for other reasons, there are alternatives to a DBS check which might reveal similar information.
Clare’s Law
Clare’s Law, officially known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, was introduced in 2014 in memory of Clare Wood, a victim of domestic violence. This law allows partners, friends, and relatives to inquire about an individual’s past convictions for violent crimes. Anyone wishing to use this law has to follow a set process which involves making an appointment at your local police station, verifying your identity, and the waiting for the police to search their records and report back, which can take a few weeks.
Clare’s Law disclosures focus specifically on violent and domestic crimes and the police will usually not provide information about other offences, such as theft or fraud. The police can simply provide any information they have on their record, they cannot stop relationships or even give advice on what you should do with any information they disclose.
Sarah’s Law
In memory of Sarah Payne, Sarah’s Law allows parents to request criminal record checks on individuals who have access to a child in their care. The information released under Sarah’s Law is limited to child sexual offences, and all disclosures are confidential, requiring applicants to keep the received information private. This is perhaps less used than Clare’s Law, as most people who are employed in childcare will have an enhanced DBS check anyway. Sarah’s Law could be used, for example, to check up on a grandparent’s new partner, if that grandparent is involved in picking up children from school.
When is a DBS Check Needed
DBS checks are essential in work-related scenarios where applicants will have contact with vulnerable groups. Clare’s Law and Sarah’s Law are more related to personal rather than work relationships. Employers can request Basic, Standard, or Enhanced DBS checks, including a Barred List check if relevant, and the level of check will depend on the sort of work the person will be doing.
