Help me please! Job dilemma

[PomBearWithoutHerOFRS]

Soooo, I have been a sahp for years, but recently, DH has been ill, and he was made redundant, and I basically HAD to step up and get off my fat arse and get a job.
Anyway, I did a training course and applied for every job going. I posted recently that I got a job in adult social care, and I was really pleased to get it, but it has been a bit problematical since the offer. There are several little niggles with things, I still don't have a start date, haven't signed anything etc
Anyway, today I got a call from a job I'd interviewed for and given up on but really wanted, and they offered me ideal hours, close to home, with a definite start date.
How do I tell the first place that I changed my mind?
I am grateful that they offered me a job, but it wasn't the actual position I applied for. They have sent off and paid for my DBS check, which I need for both jobs - should I offer to reimburse the cost?
I know this might be trivial, but it has been so long and I am overthinking and getting all chewed up about this, can you advise me?

Congrats!

Absolutely no need to offer to reimburse for DBS checks etc. New employees not quite getting through the door happens more often than you might think. In big organizations like many in social care it's mildly annoying but no big deal.

Just send an email saying you've been offered another post, and as it's closer to home with more suitable hours you have decided to take it. You had been looking forward to joining them but now wish them all the best for the future.

Then let it go and get on with your great new job

Wot choc wrote, so get that email written, and....CONGRATULATIONS!
What a fab christmas present for you!
All the best in your new job,OP.

Yep, agree with choc and congratulations to you op.

Yay! Congratulations OP!

Oooh, thanks choco I think I might phone if I am feeling brave but if not I will email.
I just feel a bit crap cos they did offer me "A" job, and it gave me a boost in my self confidence.

You need a DBS for each employer so you can't transfer anyway. Also, these days they usually only take a couple of days to come back so the delay with the first employer isn't that.

Congratulations on the job!

Yup, what Choco said. You have to do what works for you. Also, maybe it’ll encourage the other employer to work a bit faster to get new starters actually starting!