In the UK, safeguarding is a top priority, especially for roles involving children and vulnerable adults. One of the most effective tools for ensuring a safe environment is the Enhanced DBS Check. This comprehensive background check helps employers make safer hiring decisions and protects those at risk.
In this article, we break down what Enhanced DBS checks are, who needs them, why they matter, and how to apply.
Contents
What Is an Enhanced DBS Check?
The Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check is the most detailed type of criminal record check in the UK. It includes:
All spent and unspent convictions
Cautions, warnings, and reprimands
Relevant information held by police
Check against the Children’s or Adults’ Barred Lists (if applicable)
This type of DBS check is essential for positions where trust and responsibility are critical, especially where the safety of vulnerable individuals is involved.
Types of DBS Checks in the UK
Understanding the differences between DBS checks helps clarify which one is suitable:
| Type of DBS | Information Included | Suitable For |
| Basic DBS Check | Unspent convictions | General employment |
| Standard DBS Check | Spent & unspent convictions, cautions, warnings | Roles in legal, finance, and government |
| Enhanced DBS Check | All of the above plus police records and barred lists | Education, healthcare, social care |
Who Needs an Enhanced DBS Check?
Enhanced DBS checks are necessary for regulated activity roles. These typically include:
- Teachers and school staff
- Doctors, nurses, and carers
- Foster parents and social workers
- Childcare workers and nursery staff
- Sports coaches and youth leaders
- Volunteers in vulnerable settings
Taxi drivers licensed by local authorities
If your job involves unsupervised contact with children or vulnerable adults, it likely requires an Enhanced DBS check.
How to Apply for an Enhanced DBS Check
Unlike the Basic DBS check, the Enhanced DBS must be requested through an organisation. Individuals can’t apply for it on their own unless they’re volunteering.
Application Steps:
- Initiation: Employer or umbrella body starts the application.
- ID Verification: You submit identification documents.
- Processing: The DBS runs background checks with police and barred lists.
- Certification: A DBS certificate is sent to you.
- Disclosure: You share the certificate with the employer.
Unique and Modern Considerations in 2025
Digital Applications
DBS now supports digital identity checks, streamlining the process.
DBS Update Service
You can register your certificate with the DBS Update Service for £13/year (free for volunteers), making it reusable across roles.
Lived Abroad?
If you’ve lived overseas recently, you may also need a criminal record check from that country.
Data Protection
Employers must follow UK GDPR when handling your DBS data, ensuring it’s stored and used securely.
Renewal Policy
While a DBS check technically has no expiry date, many organisations renew Enhanced DBS checks every 1–3 years.
Enhanced DBS checks provide peace of mind, legal assurance, and a commitment to safeguarding. Whether you’re an employer looking to build a secure team or an individual pursuing a trusted role, understanding how Enhanced DBS works is a crucial first step.
For quick, secure, and government-registered DBS services, visit crbdirect.org.uk. CRB Direct is an authorised provider offering all levels of DBS and CRB checks in the UK.