CRB or DBS: Key Distinctions in the UK’s Vetting Systems
CRB or DBS? What’s the difference?
The United Kingdom’s vetting systems for background checks have evolved over the years, with the transition from Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) being one of the most significant changes. Myvetting.com’s guide will help you to understand if you need a CRB or DBS check. You will understand the relationship between the two different types of check and you’ll even be able to advise other people on whether they need a CRB or DBS check. Let’s review the reasons behind the transition and the implications for individuals and organisations conducting background checks.
Is CRB the Same as DBS?
The difference between CRB and DBS
The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) are two distinct organisations in the United Kingdom, each responsible for conducting background checks, but with significant differences in terms of their scope and procedures. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for individuals and organisations conducting vetting.
What does CRB stand for?
CRB stands for the Criminal Records Bureau. the Criminal Records Bureau was a government agency in the United Kingdom responsible for conducting criminal background checks (CRB check) on individuals. The CRB provided information about an individual’s criminal history, which was used by employers and organisations to assess an individual’s suitability for specific roles, especially those involving contact with vulnerable groups.
What does CRB check mean?
Before the service was restructured, an employee or volunteer could have been asked to get a CRB check meaning that they would have undergone a criminal record check. The CRB was later restructured and rebranded as the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), which now carries out similar background checks and additional safeguarding functions.
The Key Difference Between DBS and CRB
CRB checks primarily focused on an individual’s criminal record, while DBS checks provide more comprehensive assessments, including checks against barred lists. DBS checks also offer features like continuous monitoring and portability, setting them apart from CRB checks.
When Did the CRB Change to the DBS?
The transition from the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) occurred over several years and was a phased process, with full implementation of DBS checks in 2013. This transition aimed to enhance safeguarding, improve the efficiency of background checks, and streamline services under a single authority.
Here’s a brief timeline of the key milestones in this transition:
Formation of the DBS (December 2012): The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) was officially established in December 2012. This marked the creation of DBS through a merger of the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).
Transition Period (2012-2013): Following the formation of the DBS, there was a transition period during which the DBS gradually took over the responsibilities of the CRB and the ISA. During this time, individuals and organisations could still use existing CRB checks.
Full Implementation of DBS Checks (June 2013): By mid-2013, DBS checks had become fully operational, and the term “CRB check” was largely phased out. This marked the completion of the transition, and DBS checks became the standard for background checks in the UK.
CRB or DBS? – What’s New?
The move from CRB to DBS reflects the need for enhanced safeguarding. Driven by the need to strengthen safeguarding, particularly for roles involving vulnerable individuals such as children and adults at risk, DBS checks introduced the concept of “barred lists” to prevent individuals from working in these roles if deemed unsuitable.
The transition aimed to streamline background check services, reducing duplication and inefficiency. The consolidation of the CRB and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) into DBS improved the overall efficiency of the vetting process and the evolution of background checks has helped the DBS to adapt to changing needs, technological advancements, and the drive for more comprehensive and efficient checks.
Spot the Difference Between a CRB and DBS Check?
Types of Checks Offered by CRB and DBS: CRB checks primarily consisted of Standard and Enhanced checks. DBS checks offer Basic, Standard, and Enhanced checks, with checks against barred lists.
Process of Conducting CRB and DBS Checks: CRB and DBS checks share similarities in terms of document verification and the need for individuals to provide information. However, DBS checks include additional features like continuous monitoring and online verification.
Continuous Monitoring and Portability: One of the significant distinctions is that DBS checks allow for continuous monitoring of an individual’s criminal record, ensuring that employers are notified of any changes. Additionally, DBS certificates are portable, allowing individuals to carry them from role to role.
CRB or DBS – Understanding the Difference
For Employers
Understanding the differences between DBS and CRB checks is essential for employers who rely on background checks to make informed hiring decisions. Employers must adapt their practices to incorporate the enhancements offered by DBS checks.
For Individuals: Individuals seeking employment, particularly in roles involving vulnerable groups, need to be aware of the requirements for DBS checks and the benefits of having a portable, continuously monitored certificate.
Safeguarding
Both CRB and DBS checks have been essential tools in safeguarding efforts within the UK. CRB checks laid the foundation by providing information about an individual’s criminal history, helping to prevent unsuitable individuals from working in roles that involve vulnerable groups. The transition to DBS checks represented a significant step forward in safeguarding, with the introduction of barred lists, continuous monitoring, and enhanced portability. These features serve to strengthen the safeguarding of vulnerable individuals and ensure that safeguarding measures remain current and effective. Both CRB and DBS checks contribute to a safer environment for vulnerable groups and the wider community in the UK.
When answering the question, ‘Do I need a CRB or DBS?’, you’ll now be able to answer confidently, ‘DBS’.
