Safer Recruitment

Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks are now called Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.

You may need to check someone’s criminal record if they apply:

  • for certain jobs or voluntary work, for example working with children or in healthcare
  • to foster or adopt a child.

Only employers and licensing bodies can request a DBS check. Job applicants can’t do a criminal records check on themselves. Instead, they can request a basic disclosure from Disclosure Scotland (you don’t have to be from Scotland to do this).

Use the DBS tool to find out if you can check someone’s criminal record. You can contact DBS if you’re not sure.

DBS customer services

customerservices@dbs.gsi.gov.uk
Telephone: 0300 0200 190
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm (9am to 5pm for appeals and disputes)
Saturday, 10am to 5pm
Find out about call charges

REMEMBER: A DBS only checks for existing criminal records, it does not mean a person is safe to work with children. Always check references and always remain 'professionally curious'.

> Safeguarding Statement to be used on adverts in Bromley.

See the Training Programme page for details of Safer Recruitment training available in Bromley.