A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a crucial part of background screening in the UK, particularly for roles involving vulnerable groups or positions of trust. Whether you’re an employer or job applicant, understanding what appears on a DBS certificate helps ensure transparency in the hiring process.
What Information Does a DBS Check Reveal?
The details shown depend on the level of check conducted:
1. Basic DBS Check
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Unspent convictions (criminal records not yet cleared under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act)
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Conditional cautions (within the rehabilitation period)
2. Standard DBS Check
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Spent and unspent convictions
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Cautions, warnings, and reprimands
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Inclusion on children’s or adults’ barred lists (if applicable)
3. Enhanced DBS Check
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All Standard DBS information
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Additional police intelligence (relevant but non-conviction information, such as ongoing investigations)
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Barred list check (if the role involves regulated activity)
What Does NOT Appear on a DBS Check?
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Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) or parking fines
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Spent convictions (for Basic checks)
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Youth cautions (unless for an Enhanced check with specific relevance)
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Credit history or financial records
How Long Does Information Stay on a DBS Certificate?
A DBS check provides a snapshot of an individual’s criminal record at the time the check is processed, but the duration that information remains visible depends on several factors. Convictions will generally remain on a DBS certificate indefinitely unless they qualify for filtering under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. For cautions, the rules differ by age – adult cautions (given to those 18 or over) may be removed after six years, while youth cautions (given to under-18s) can be filtered after just two years. The DBS filtering system allows certain minor offences to be removed after specific rehabilitation periods, ensuring that old and irrelevant convictions don’t unfairly impact employment opportunities. It’s important to note that even when information is filtered from standard DBS checks, it may still appear on enhanced checks if police consider it relevant to the role being applied for.
Can You Challenge Incorrect Information?
If your DBS certificate contains inaccurate information, you do have recourse to correct these errors. The first step is to contact the police force that provided the information to dispute any incorrect records. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, you can request a formal review through the DBS itself, which has procedures in place to investigate disputed information. In cases where errors persist despite these measures, seeking legal advice may be necessary, particularly if the incorrect information is affecting employment prospects. Specialist solicitors can advise on judicial review options or other legal remedies available when challenging DBS records.
Why Choose ClearCheck for Your DBS Check?
ClearCheck offers a streamlined, professional service for all your DBS check requirements. Our online application system makes the process quick and straightforward, eliminating the paperwork delays associated with traditional applications. We provide expert guidance to help you understand eligibility criteria and the complex filtering rules, ensuring you apply for the correct level of check. All applications are processed securely with robust data protection measures in place, while our efficient systems minimise processing times. Whether you’re an individual needing a check for employment or an organisation requiring multiple checks, ClearCheck combines speed, accuracy and expertise to deliver a reliable service you can trust. Our team is always available to answer questions and guide you through every step of the DBS application process
Final Thoughts
Understanding what appears on a DBS check helps both employers and applicants navigate the process confidently. Whether you need a Basic, Standard, or Enhanced check, always verify the correct level required for the role.
For quick, reliable DBS checks, visit ClearCheck.co.uk today.
