When applying for a job—especially in sectors involving children, vulnerable adults, or positions of trust—you may be asked to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. One common concern for applicants is whether spent convictions will appear on a DBS certificate. Understanding what gets disclosed can help you better prepare for the recruitment process.
What Is a Spent Conviction?
Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, a conviction or caution becomes ‘spent’ after a certain period, as long as no further offences are committed. Once spent, the individual is generally not required to disclose it to employers—unless the role is exempt from the Act, such as those involving vulnerable groups or national security.
The length of the rehabilitation period depends on the type and severity of the offence, as well as the sentence given.
Types of DBS Checks and What They Reveal
There are three main levels of DBS checks, and what gets disclosed varies depending on the level requested by the employer:
1. Basic DBS Check
A basic check only reveals unspent convictions. Spent convictions will not appear, making it suitable for general employment where no safeguarding is involved.
2. Standard DBS Check
This level includes both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings, unless they are eligible for filtering (more on this below). It is used for roles with some level of responsibility or trust, such as working in finance or law.
3. Enhanced DBS Check
Enhanced checks disclose the same information as a standard check but may also include non-conviction information held by local police if relevant to the role. This is typically required for positions involving direct contact with children or vulnerable adults.
Filtering Rules: What May Be Left Out?
Some spent convictions and cautions are filtered, meaning they do not appear on standard or enhanced DBS checks. The filtering rules depend on:
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The nature of the offence (serious offences like sexual or violent crimes are not filtered)
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The age of the individual at the time of the offence
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The time that has passed since the conviction or caution
For example, a minor caution given more than six years ago (or two years ago if under 18 at the time) for a non-serious offence may be filtered and therefore not shown on the certificate.
Your Right to Know and Challenge
Before an employer sees the results of a DBS check, the certificate is sent to you. If you believe incorrect or inappropriate information has been disclosed, you can challenge the content through the DBS’s formal dispute process.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how spent convictions and DBS checks work is crucial for both job applicants and employers. It helps manage expectations, supports fair hiring practices, and ensures compliance with UK law.
If you’re unsure about your DBS status or need assistance, visit ClearCheck.co.uk to get started with a secure, reliable DBS check today.
