Information about DBS Checks

What is a DBS Check (Criminal Records Checks)?

• A DBS check is a service provided by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) (previously known as the Criminal Records Bureau or CRB), an executive agency of the Home Office. Criminal records checks help organisations to make more informed recruitment decisions and thus help reduce the risk of employing or admitting someone who may have an unsuitable background for particular types of work or programmes of study.
• By way of an authorised Application form, the DBS provide access to information held on the Police National Computer (PNC) and by local forces, and, in relevant cases, information held by the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).
• There are two levels of Disclosure: Standard and Enhanced. Your Department/Section will advise you on what level of Disclosure you need to apply for. However most applicants to Durham University, whether it be staff or students, will be asked to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure as they will be working directly with children and/or vulnerable adults in a regulated setting.
• Disclosure Scotland offer a basic level criminal records check. For this level of check applicants must apply directly through Disclosure Scotland.