To work as a forester or tree surgeon, you will need to undergo a statutory DBS check as part of your recruitment process. This level of background check is necessary for all those working in roles in the UK which involve a degree of interaction with the public.

A basic DBS check for a UK forester or tree surgeon involves a search for any unspent criminal convictions or conditional cautions.

Basic DBS checks are a first tier CRB check carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service. The Disclosure and Barring Service is a public body sponsored by the Home Office.

Why do I need a DBS check?

DBS checks are a national safeguarding measure introduced in 1974 under the 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. These statutory criminal record checks ensure the public, particularly children and vulnerable adults, are protected from those who are unsuitable for public-facing roles.

The 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act sets out the type of DBS check that must be administered for each frontline position. Therefore, your employer has a legal duty to include the CRB check as part of your recruitment process.

There are four types of DBS checks in operation in the UK. Each background check is based on the degree of engagement you will have with the public, particularly children and vulnerable adults in role.

As a tree surgeon or forester, your interaction with the public will be limited so you will only need a basic DBS check. Your basic DBS check can be requested by you or your employer.

We specialise in supporting individuals and organisations to complete basic DBS checks quickly and easily online.

If you would like to apply for a basic DBS check for a tree surgeon or forester online, or would like to talk to one of our friendly experts about DBS checks, call today on 0333 030 0446 or visit our home page now.