Doctors in the UK are expected to undertake an enhanced DBS check with barred lists. DBS checks are statutory criminal record checks carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
DBS checks are used to keep the public safe, particularly children and vulnerable adults.
There are four types of DBS checks in operation in the UK:
- Basic DBS
- Standard DBS
- Enhanced DBS
- Enhanced DBS with barring lists
The need for DBS checks was set out in the 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. The act stipulates all the roles in the UK which require a DBS check and the type of check which must be undertaken.
All jobs which include a degree of contact with the public are included in the act. Those who engage in the closest contact with the public, particularly children and vulnerable adults are subject to the highest type of CRB check.
Doctors are constantly in close contact with children and vulnerable adults so a DBS check for a doctor is an enhanced DBS with barred lists.
Your enhanced DBS check can only be requested by your employer and will require a search for any unspent or spent convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings. The DBS will also check if there is any further non-conviction information in existence with relevant police forces or entries on the children’s and vulnerable adults barred lists.
As a closely regulated healthcare professional, you have a legal duty to declare any convictions. Your registration of the General Medical Council (GMC) will also be subject to the measures set out in the 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.
To find out more about your legal rights and enhanced DBS checks for doctors visit: hub.unlock.org.uk/rehabilitationofoffendersact
