Many terminologies can be used when carrying out DBS checks, and ‘filtering’ is a term many may have heard of but are unsure what it means. Filtered offences are all known as ‘protected offences’ to ensure that minor offences do not affect the future of those who have since been rehabilitated.
Filtering only applies to warnings, reprimands, youth cautions and convictions not resulting in a custodial sentence.
When Does Filtering Take Place on a DBS Check?
When filtering takes place on a DBS check depends on the nature of the conviction or caution. Any reprimands or warnings received when under the age of 18 will be automatically removed from DBS checks, whereas adult cautions are removed after six years.
Adult convictions are removed after 11 years, as long as no prison or suspended sentence was issued and wasn’t related to a specific offence.
Does Filtering Hide Serious Crimes?
One of the concerns companies have with filtering is that they are worried serious crimes will be omitted from the DBS check, but this isn’t the case. Although minor offences are filtered after a period, a Standard and Enhanced DBS Check will always show serious crimes.
As such, those carrying out DBS checks for teachers, nurses, carers and other roles that require interaction with children and the vulnerable can be confident that background checks keep employees and customers safe.
There are specified offences that cannot be filtered on Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks, and while the crimes vary, they will often be sexual or violent in nature. Companies requesting an Enhanced DBS Check can also ask the provider to carry out a Barred List check.
What Are Barred Lists?
There are two Barred Lists, both of which are managed by the Disclosure and Barring Service. The Adult Barred List details those barred from working with vulnerable adults, while the Children’s Barred List acts as a replacement for List 99, describing those who cannot work with children. Those wanting to carry out a List 99 check should note that this has now been replaced by the Children’s Barred List, which is currently provided by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
As such, those wanting to carry out a List 99 Check will need to request an Enhanced DBS Check and request for the Barred Lists to be checked, which will be included on the completed DBS check.
Despite the concerns businesses have regarding filtering, it is only applied when crimes are minor and will not omit offences that are considered serious. For an efficient DBS Check to be carried out, businesses must ensure they are using a reputable provider who can provide prompt checks when they’re needed.
Although DBS Checks can take around 14 days to complete using conventional methods, using a seasoned professional means businesses and organisations can receive results in as little as one hour.
Even when applicants give incorrect details, opting for a digital DBS Check ensures that the hiring process is streamlined, and businesses and organisations can obtain the correct information about the applicant without waiting several days.
