As an employer, it’s essential to ensure that appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks are completed and regularly reviewed for your staff, in line with safeguarding and recruitment obligations. HR Connect offers a reliable and compliant integration with the DBS Update Service to support you with this process.

What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service allows employers to check the status of an individual’s existing DBS certificate, with their consent, rather than applying for a new standard or enhanced check each time. This can save both time and costs while maintaining safeguarding standards.

If your employee is registered with the DBS Update Service, you can access their certificate status online with their permission. This allows you to confirm whether any relevant information has changed since the original DBS check was completed.

Before using the Update Service, you must:

• Verify the original DBS certificate provided by the applicant.
• Confirm the applicant’s identity through approved ID documentation.
• Obtain the applicant’s written consent to check their status.
• Ensure you are legally entitled to view the same level of check (standard or enhanced) as originally issued.
• Confirm that the DBS certificate covers the appropriate workforce category and barred lists relevant to the role.

You can conduct status checks at any time; however, we recommend no more than once per year, or in line with your own organisational policies, to remain proportionate and compliant.

Please note:

• Criminal conviction and barring information is checked by the DBS on a weekly basis.
• Non-conviction information (such as police intelligence) is reviewed every nine months.

Since the DBS Update Service does not provide automatic notifications of status changes, it’s your responsibility to perform these periodic checks and maintain up-to-date records.

What to Do if a Status Change is Reported

If a status check indicates that new information is available, or if the individual’s DBS certificate is no longer up to date, you must request a new standard or enhanced DBS check to obtain the latest disclosure information.

Fast - Get results quickly, especially using our integrated Digital ID Check service.

Compliant - Our secure platform aligns with Home Office guidelines.

Remote Delivery - Handle your DBS, Right to  Work, Digital ID and Reference  checks in one platform.

Cost Savings - Pay only for the service you use.

Efficient - Decrease time-to-hire for a streamlined recruitment process.

Security - Rely on ISO27001 accredited  provider (powered by Cantium) for data protection. 

Accurate - Advanced AI technology for robust document verification,  reducing errors compared to  manual checks.