In today’s world, ensuring the safety of children, vulnerable adults, and the public is a top priority for organisations and employers. The Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check is one of the UK’s most thorough background screening tools, designed to help employers make informed and safe recruitment decisions. This guide offers a fresh look at Enhanced DBS checks in 2025, with additional insights to help both employers and applicants navigate the process.
What is an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS Check is the highest level of criminal record check available in the UK. It includes:
- Spent and unspent convictions
- Cautions, warnings, and reprimands
- Relevant local police information
Checks against the Children’s Barred List and/or Adults’ Barred List (if required)
This type of check is typically required for positions involving regular contact with vulnerable groups.
Types of DBS Checks
While Enhanced checks are the most detailed, there are other levels:
Basic DBS Check – Shows only unspent convictions.
Standard DBS Check – Shows spent and unspent convictions, cautions, warnings.
Enhanced DBS Check – Standard check plus local police intelligence and barred list checks.
Who Needs an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS check is generally required for:
- Teachers, teaching assistants, and school staff
- Doctors, nurses, and paramedics
- Care workers and social workers
- Foster carers and adoptive parents
- Youth workers and sports coaches
- Volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults
Some local authorities also require Enhanced DBS checks for taxi drivers and certain licence holders.
Why Enhanced DBS Checks Matter in 2025
- Strengthened Safeguarding Legislation – With ongoing reforms in child protection laws, DBS checks remain a legal safeguard.
- Public Trust and Confidence – Employers can reassure service users and clients that safety is a top priority.
- Preventing Repeat Offences – Identifying individuals with relevant offences helps prevent risks before they occur.
- Cross-Employer Portability – Through the DBS Update Service, workers can transfer valid certificates between jobs.
- Digital Verification Advances – Faster, more secure online application systems mean reduced delays in recruitment.
- Overseas Criminal History Checks – For applicants who have lived abroad, an Enhanced DBS check can be combined with international screening.
- Support for Volunteer Programmes – Free Enhanced checks are available for certain volunteer roles, encouraging community involvement.
How to Apply for an Enhanced DBS Check
Individuals cannot apply for an Enhanced DBS check directly unless they are volunteers using an umbrella body. The application is employer-led.
Application Steps:
- Employer starts the application via a DBS-registered organisation.
- Applicant provides proof of identity and personal details.
- DBS gathers information from police databases and barred lists.
- Certificate is sent to the applicant.
- Applicant shares the certificate with the employer.
Additional Points to Consider
Filtering Rules: Certain old or minor offences may not appear after a set period.
Data Protection: Employers must handle DBS information in compliance with GDPR.
No Expiry Date: DBS certificates have no fixed expiry but may need updating based on employer requirements.
Police Discretion: Local police can include relevant non-conviction information if necessary for the role.
Update Service: Annual subscription (£13, free for volunteers) keeps the certificate current and reusable.
Sector-Specific Requirements: Different roles may have specific legal obligations for DBS clearance.
An Enhanced DBS check is more than a legal requirement—it’s a vital part of creating safe and trustworthy environments. Whether you’re an employer hiring for a regulated role or an applicant seeking work with vulnerable groups, understanding the process and benefits of an Enhanced DBS check is essential in 2025.
For fast, reliable, and government-registered DBS checks in the UK, visit clearcheck.co.uk/.