Securing a job in childcare often hinges on more than just experience and passion. Obtaining a Criminal Record Check (DBS) can significantly boost your job prospects, showing your commitment to child safety. This guide will explain the importance of a DBS check for childcare providers, outlining the simple steps to acquire one and how it can enhance your professional credibility.
What is a Criminal Record Check?
Criminal record checks are carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and provide details of an individual’s criminal record. These checks are based on the information held on the DBS’s children and adults barred lists, together with any relevant information held by local police forces. These checks are in place to assist employers in making safer recruitment decisions and to protect vulnerable children from potentially dangerous individuals. When a check has been completed by the DBS, the individual will receive a DBS (formerly known as CRB) certificate.
Which Criminal Record Check Do I Need?
Childcare providers should have the highest level of check: an Enhanced DBS Check. This form of criminal record check will highlight the following:
- Any criminal convictions within the UK only, including those that would normally be considered ‘spent’ under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1977.
- Whether the applicant is on ‘List 99’ and therefore banned from teaching.
- Whether the applicant is on the Protection of Children Act List and has therefore been banned from working with children in a childcare role.
- Whether the applicant is subject to a Disqualification Order following a conviction for certain criminal offences including sexual, violent or drug-related crimes.
- Any other information the police consider to be relevant, this could include if your own family has been subject to a child protection investigation.
Am I Obliged to get a DBS check?
All Ofsted registered childcare providers, including childminders and Ofsted-registered nannies require a DBS check. It is not a legal obligation for non-Ofsted registered nannies and babysitters to have a DBS check, it is however an asset for parent’s peace of mind.
You can find out more on how to apply on our Ofsted registration for childminders page.
Can a Parent Request a DBS Check on my Behalf?
A parent cannot request a DBS check- even if they are your employer. All DBS checks must be carried out via an umbrella organisation.
How Much is a DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS check is £38 and a Basic DBS check is £18. The DBS Update service, meaning your DBS renews automatically, is £13 per year.
How Long Does it Take to Obtain a DBS Check?
DBS disclosures are supposed to take no more than 60 days, however, the Home Office is inundated with requests for checks meaning you could be waiting longer!
What if I’ve Lived Outside the UK in the Last Five Years?
Not to worry, you can still request a DBS certificate. You will need your previous address history and documentation from the relevant country. If you have moved locations within the UK in the last five years, you will need your previous address history.
Can I use a Foreign Criminal Record Check?
Non-UK Childcare Professionals are able to provide a police check from their country of origin or the country they most recently lived in. However, some families may only accept UK based criminal records check. It is also worth keeping in mind that certain foreign criminal record checks may not meet the same standard as a DBS disclosure, meaning you may also need a certificate of good conduct from the relevant embassy.
Looking for the perfect childcare job? With Yoopies you can showcase your childcare qualifications and provide your DBS check on your personalised profile.
Browse thousands of jobs in just a few clicks!