Spotlight on the DBS Update Service

The DBS Update Service enables organisations to carry out online status checks on eligible DBS certificates, helping to ensure safeguarding information remains current throughout an individual's employment. Used effectively, it can support ongoing workforce assurance, strengthen safeguarding arrangements, and reduce the need for repeat DBS applications.

However, the Update Service should be used as part of a wider safer recruitment and employment framework. Organisations should continue to carry out robust identity, right to work and qualification checks, obtain and assess references, review employment history, and consider any safeguarding concerns when making recruitment and workforce decisions.

What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service allows holders of Standard and Enhanced DBS certificates to keep their certificate up to date through an online subscription. With an individual's consent, employers can carry out, instant online status checks to confirm whether any new information has been added to a DBS record since the certificate was issued.

How does the DBS Update Service monitor new information?

Once a certificate has been added to the Update Service, the DBS carries out periodic searches to identify whether any new information has become available since the certificate was issued. The frequency of these searches depends on the type of information being checked:

• Criminal conviction information is checked weekly. If new conviction information is identified that would be disclosed on a DBS certificate, the certificate status will change.
• Barred List information is also checked weekly. If an individual is added to a relevant Barred List after their certificate is issued, this will trigger a status change.
• Non-conviction information is reviewed every nine months. Where potential new information is identified, DBS will ask the police to assess whether it meets the disclosure threshold. If the police determine that the information would be disclosed on a new DBS check, the certificate status will change.

By incorporating regular Update Service status checks into existing safeguarding processes, organisations can help ensure they remain aware of any relevant changes that may affect an individual's suitability for their role and maintain a safe workforce.

Should employers utilise the DBS Update Service?

Regular status checks can help organisations identify whether there have been any changes to an individual's DBS record but the service should complement, not replace, wider safeguarding processes.

In summary, the DBS Update Service is a valuable tool for supporting safer recruitment and ongoing workforce management. When used alongside robust safeguarding measures, it can help organisations maintain confidence in their recruitment decisions, reduce unnecessary repeat DBS applications, and support compliance with safer employment practices.

Further information about the Update Service and carrying out update service checks can found here.

How can EmploymentCheck help?

HR Connect offers a reliable and compliant integration with the DBS Update Service via the EmploymentCheck platform. If you would like to learn more, our team are always happy to help. Contact us at info@hrconnect.org.uk for more information.