As a forensic scientist, you will be working in close contact with all members of the public, therefore you will need to undertake a formal DBS check to enter the profession.

A DBS check is a statutory background check which must be undertaken by all those working in frontline roles in the UK.

There are a number of different types of DBS checks in operation in the UK. Those working in unsupervised roles with the public, such as forensic scientists, are subject to the strongest level of check to ensure the public are properly safeguarded.

Your DBS check will be carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service who are a public body sponsored by the Home Office.

A DBS check for a forensic scientist in the UK is an enhanced DBS check. This type of CRB check is a deep search for any spent convictions, reprimands, cautions, warnings and non-conviction information held by relevant police forces.

What is an enhanced DBS check?

Enhanced DBS checks can only be requested by your employer. They are the strongest level of check, reserved for those who have unsupervised contact with the public.

The need for enhanced DBS checks for forensic scientists and all those working in public-facing roles is set out in the 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

The act’s purpose is to ensure the public, particularly children and vulnerable adults, are properly safeguarded from those who are unsuitable for frontline positions.

An enhanced DBS check for a forensic scientist is a statutory background check your employer has a legal duty to include in your recruitment process.

To find out more about enhanced DBS checks and your rights under the 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act, visit unlock.org.