Do Volunteers Need a DBS Check? An Expert's Guide to Understanding the Requirements

Many volunteers don't need to go through a DBS check. If they are volunteering at a big sporting event or working at a charity store, they won't need to be screened by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). It's important to note that individuals cannot request a standard or enhanced check themselves; they must be requested by the organization they are applying to volunteer for. Volunteers at schools that are not supervised will need to have a DBS check with a list of prohibited people, as they are considered to be carrying out a “regulated activity”.

Basic DBS checks cannot be requested by individuals, but if an organization needs one for staff or volunteers, they can do so. It's also important to remember that it is not mandatory to test all volunteers for DBS under any circumstances; these types of controls can only be carried out if a volunteer or paid worker is going to perform work known as a regulated activity. The decision about whether someone should apply for a DBS or not depends on the type of work they are going to do. For example, if volunteers are supervised at school, they may need an improved DBS check (not including the list of prohibited persons). The degree of “oversight” will determine whether a volunteer carries out a regulated activity and, consequently, whether it is necessary to check the list of prohibited persons.

Volunteers must also carry out the same checks on their right to work as paid employees. If you're considering applying for an unpaid position, you may need to complete a DBS verification. If a volunteer requests a standard or enhanced check and does not meet the criteria, the DBS could recover administration costs. Clear Check Ltd is officially approved by the Disclosure and Prohibition Service as the responsible organization for processing DBS checks. It's essential that you understand everything related to volunteers and DBS checks, as not all volunteers meet the requirements. For instance, volunteers in schools who receive reasonable supervision do not need to undergo a DBS check.

If you represent an organization that recruits volunteers, you may need to request that potential candidates request a DBS check. When DBS checks are carried out on volunteers, they must be registered in the school's single central registry.

What Is A DBS Check?

A DBS check is an official document issued by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) which provides information about an individual's criminal record. It is used by employers and organizations when recruiting staff or volunteers in order to ensure that they are suitable for the role. The type of check required depends on the type of work being carried out; for example, if someone is working with children or vulnerable adults, they may need an enhanced check.

Do All Volunteers Need A DBS Check?

No, not all volunteers need to have a DBS check.

It depends on the type of work they are doing and whether it is considered to be “regulated activity”. For example, if volunteers are supervised at school, they may not need to have a DBS check. However, if they are working with children or vulnerable adults without supervision, then they will need an enhanced check.

What Is The Process For Obtaining A DBS Check?

The process for obtaining a DBS check depends on the type of check required. Basic checks can only be requested by organizations and cannot be requested by individuals.

Enhanced checks can be requested by individuals but must be requested by an organization if it is for employment purposes. The process involves completing an application form and providing proof of identity documents such as passport or driving license.

Conclusion

It's important to understand when volunteers need to undergo a DBS check and when they don't. Not all volunteers meet the criteria for having one; it depends on the type of work they are doing and whether it is considered to be “regulated activity”. Organizations should ensure that potential candidates understand what type of check is required and what documents they need to provide in order to complete it.

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