Basic DBS Check Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Basic DBS Check Guide: Everything you Need to Know – from Who Can Apply, to What Does a DBS Check Show?

A basic DBS check, also referred to as a basic disclosure, is the least detailed level of DBS check available. It is a form of criminal record check that can be used to determine whether you’re suitable for a role in terms of your background. 

Who Can Apply for a Basic DBS Check?

As a basic DBS can be obtained to assess your suitability for any job or even for a purpose that is unrelated to work, they can be requested by both individual applicants and employers. However, individual applicants can only apply for a basic DBS.

If employers need basic disclosure information for an applicant or an existing employee, they must obtain the consent of the relevant individual and go through a responsible organisation: an organisation registered with the DBS and recognised as being qualified to submit basic disclosures via an online system. Responsible organisations can request basic DBS checks on behalf of both employers. 

Care Check are a responsible organisation, and we are therefore authorised to submit basic DBS checks for staff on behalf of employers across all job sectors. We also provide standard and enhanced DBS checks, and can therefore submit criminal record checks for applicants within the voluntary sector.

Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks

This blog has been created to provide the definitive guide to basic DBS checks. However, if you are unsure which type of criminal record check you require, you can find out more about the differences between basic, standard and enhanced DBS checks.

How Much Does a Basic DBS Check Cost?

The DBS fee for a basic DBS is £23 per application. This is a flat fee and therefore applies to applications for DBS checks for volunteers too. The Responsible Organisation will also charge an administration fee to process the application. For example, Care Check’s administration fee ranges from £4 to £10 per application depending on the employer’s volume. 

Who is Responsible for Paying the DBS Check Fees?

For basic DBS checks requested by your workplace, this will depend on the specific arrangement that has been made with your prospective or existing employer. They are not under a legal obligation to cover the cost of your basic DBS check if this does not form part of your agreement.

If someone other than yourself is paying for your DBS check, such as an employer, you will be given the option to pay later. However, if you are covering the cost of your own basic DBS check, then the payment can be made as part of the application process. 

Care Check receive 90% of basic DBS checks back in less than 24 hours. If an application goes over this period the majority of basic DBS checks complete within 14 days.