Volunteers are an invaluable asset to many organizations, providing their time and skills to benefit those in need. As such, it is essential that volunteers are properly evaluated to ensure the safety of vulnerable groups with whom they may work. This evaluation process typically includes a DBS check, which stands for Disclosure and Barring Service. This article will explain the role of volunteers in the DBS check process and provide information on eligibility criteria and exemptions.In the United Kingdom, the level of DBS verification required of a volunteer depends on the nature of their role and the level of contact they will have with children or vulnerable adults.
Generally, if a volunteer is going to work with children, vulnerable adults or in positions of trust, they should undergo a DBS check. However, not all volunteers are eligible to receive DBS checks, so it is important to understand the rules and regulations that govern them before attempting to request one.The organization provides the volunteer with an application form, which must then be returned with several forms of identification. If a volunteer requests a standard or improved check and does not meet these eligibility criteria, DBS can retrospectively recover the full application fee. It is important to note that some volunteer jobs are exempt from DBS verification, such as those involving random contact with children or vulnerable adults, or those that are supervised at all times by a person who has been properly evaluated.The DBS does not issue free basic tests for volunteers, as they are not a legal requirement.
The verification will include a check of the applicant's status on the list of prohibited persons, which will indicate whether they are prohibited from working with vulnerable people. If you have any unanswered questions about DBS testing for volunteers or want more information, get in touch with us and we'll be happy to help.It's important to remember that volunteers with a criminal record may still have valuable skills and experience to offer your organization, and that a criminal record alone doesn't necessarily disqualify someone from volunteering. The 2002 Regulations of the Police Act 1997 (Criminal Record) define a volunteer as “any person who participates in an activity that involves dedicating time, without compensation (except for travel and other approved out-of-pocket expenses), to do something that is intended to benefit a third party and not a close relative”.In conclusion, it is essential that organizations understand the role of volunteers in the DBS check process in order to ensure the safety of vulnerable groups with whom they may work. It is important to note that some volunteer jobs are exempt from DBS verification, while others may require a standard or improved check.
The DBS does not issue free basic tests for volunteers, as they are not a legal requirement. Finally, it is important to remember that volunteers with a criminal record may still have valuable skills and experience to offer your organization.
