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Original poster

DBS update service

38 replies

StillIrked · 16/06/2024 11:20

As I sit here again, completing my second DBS application in 6 months despite being on the update service, I wonder if anyone has actually accepted, or had accepted, a DBS on the update service?

I've been on the update service since it began and yet every time I've needed a DBS, I've needed to apply for a new one because I haven't encountered anywhere yet that will accept a DBS on the update service.

Everywhere wants one with their name on it.

Has anyone ever actually had a DBS on the update service accepted?

Or have I misunderstood and is it only intended to mean that you don't have to apply for repeat ones for the same organisation?

OP posts:
FranKatzenjammer · 16/06/2024 16:31

Just to clarify, I am not employed by a school but I visit schools as part of my job.

savoycabbage · 16/06/2024 18:40

Who pays to be registered with the update service?

My supply agency pays for mine.

TravellingSpoon · 16/06/2024 18:45

I dont bother any more and cancelled my subscription.

I have been with the same employer for years, and every time I move or get a promotion I have to do a new one, even if its in the same service or unit (promoted to team leader), and they wont accept the update. Seemed a waste of £13.

WittyFatball · 16/06/2024 18:56

I've been on the update service for years - have used the same DBS for Ofsted, volunteering, a school and a nursery.

WittyFatball · 16/06/2024 18:59

NeverDropYourMooncup · 16/06/2024 15:34

KCSIE 2024:

All offers of appointment should be conditional until satisfactory completion of the mandatory pre-employment checks. All schools and colleges must:

• verify a candidate’s identity, it is important to be sure that the person is who they claim to be, this includes being aware of the potential for individuals changing their name. Best practice is checking the name on their birth certificate, where this is available. Further identification checking guidelines can be found on the GOV.UK website.

• obtain (via the applicant) an enhanced DBS check (including children’s barred list information, for those who will be engaging in regulated activity with children). Note that when using the DBS update service, you still need to obtain the original physical certificate (see paragraphs 255-258).

Where a DBS certificate is required, it must be obtained from the candidate before, or as soon as practicable after, the person’s appointment, including when using the DBS update service (see paragraph 255 - 258).

Once the checks are complete, the DBS will send a DBS certificate to the applicant. The applicant must show the original paper DBS certificate to their potential employer before they take up post, or as soon as practicable afterwards. Schools and colleges will be able to compare any information disclosed on the certificate with any information shared by the applicant during the recruitment process. DBS guidance on how to check a DBS certificate can be found on GOV.UK.

Individuals can join the DBS Update Service at the point that an application for a new DBS check is made. Subscription to the service enables future status checks to be carried out by employers to confirm that no new information has been added to the check since its issue.

As good practice, many schools and colleges require new staff to join the Update Service as part of their employment contract. The benefits of joining the Update Service are:
• portability of a DBS check across employers
• free online checks to identify whether there has been any change to the information recorded, since the initial certificate was issued and advice whether the individual should apply for a new DBS check, and,
• that individuals will be able to see a full list of those organisations that have carried out a status check on their account.

Before using the Update Service, schools and colleges must:
• obtain consent from the individual to carry out an online check to view the status of an existing standard or enhanced DBS check
• confirm the DBS certificate matches the individual’s identity
• examine the original certificate to ensure that it is valid for employment with the children’s workforce, and,
• ensure that the level of the check is appropriate to the job they are applying for, e.g. enhanced DBS check/enhanced DBS check including with barred list information.

It's belt and braces - when I worked for the NHS, each trust had a similar policy of applying for one themselves.

So that's saying a DBS on the update service is fine, schools don't need to ask candidates to get a new one?

savoycabbage · 16/06/2024 19:00

WittyFatball · 16/06/2024 18:56

I've been on the update service for years - have used the same DBS for Ofsted, volunteering, a school and a nursery.

Four places isn't that many though. I can go to four schools in a week.

QualityDog · 16/06/2024 19:02

So that's saying a DBS on the update service is fine, schools don't need to ask candidates to get a new one?

Yes, that's what is supposed to happen, the problem is that a lot of places don't seem to know what the update service is.

WittyFatball · 16/06/2024 19:34

savoycabbage · 16/06/2024 19:00

Four places isn't that many though. I can go to four schools in a week.

Show quote history

Yeah, I can see it's really annoying if schools choose not to use it.

SleightlyHome · 16/06/2024 19:39

NeverDropYourMooncup · 16/06/2024 12:55

Schools fail Ofsted outright if rechecks haven't been completed every three years. I imagine that other Education providers have similar legislatory requirements.

Show quote history

That is totally untrue
There is NO requirement to re-do DBS checks every 3 years, the DfE actually questions if it is a good use of public funds

Ofsted dont look at DBS checks in that way- they certainly don't and never had failed a school because they are more than 3 years old.

Wafflefudge · 17/06/2024 08:06

The welsh equivalent Estyn did check for DBS every three years. But now check for DBS or update service check.
If you are having troubles with schools in the sane LA it might be worth contacting the LAS Central HR who would hopefully be able to confirm the update service is acceptable and then you'd be able to provide the confirmation to the schools you are visiting.

umar123 · 14/12/2024 19:09

Why wouldn't an organisation accept a DBS on the update on the update service and tell you do another one?
It keeps all of your records up to date.
What planet are they living on?😅

savoycabbage · 14/12/2024 19:12

umar123 · 14/12/2024 19:09

Why wouldn't an organisation accept a DBS on the update on the update service and tell you do another one?
It keeps all of your records up to date.
What planet are they living on?😅

I don't understand what you mean.

umar123 · 14/12/2024 19:16

savoycabbage · 14/12/2024 19:12

I don't understand what you mean.

Show quote history

Sorry. That was a mistake I made.
I mean why wouldn't an organisation accept a DBS certificate on the update service if it keeps your records up to date

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