From CRB to DBS: A Timeline of the UK’s Background Check System Evolution
The change from CRB to DBS may have happened several years ago but it can be useful to understand how and why the changes were made. In MyVetting.com’s go-to-guide to the move from CRB to DBS, we’ll explore changes in terminology and procedures, as well as the changes to types of checks available. We’ll review the timeline of this transition, the key differences between CRB and DBS checks, and the reasons behind this transformation.
Is it CRB or DBS now?
The simple answer to this question is that it’s DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) now. The term “CRB check” has been phased out, although you may still hear people ask from time to time, ‘What is a CRB check?’ DBS is the current authority responsible for conducting background checks in the UK. The change from CRB to DBS reflects a broader reformation of the background check system to enhance safeguarding and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
When did CRB change to DBS?
The transition from the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in the United Kingdom occurred over several years and was a phased process. 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.
What was DBS previously called?
The Disclosure and Barring Service was previously known as the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). CRB was the original agency responsible for processing background checks in the UK before being restructured and rebranded as DBS.
Are DBS Checks The Same As CRB Checks?
DBS checks and CRB checks serve a similar purpose, which is to provide information about an individual’s criminal history. However, there are several important differences between the two:
Name Change
The most obvious difference is the change in the name of the organisation responsible for conducting these checks. CRB checks were previously administered by the Criminal Records Bureau, while DBS checks are now handled by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Enhanced Checks
The DBS introduced enhanced checks, which include not only a search of an individual’s criminal record but also checks against barred lists. This provides a more comprehensive assessment of an individual’s suitability for specific roles, especially those involving vulnerable groups.
Continuous Updating
DBS checks allow for continuous updating of an individual’s criminal record information. This means that employers can be notified of any changes in an employee’s status, including if they are added to a barred list.
Portability
DBS certificates are portable, meaning that individuals can carry them from one job or role to another. Employers can check the validity of an existing DBS certificate online, reducing the need for frequent rechecks.
Why Did DBS Checks Replace CRB Checks?
The transition from CRB to DBS checks was driven by a desire to enhance the safeguarding of vulnerable individuals and to improve the efficiency and accuracy of background checks. Here are some key reasons behind this change:
Comprehensive Checks
DBS checks were introduced to provide a more comprehensive assessment of an individual’s suitability for certain roles, especially those involving children and vulnerable adults. The inclusion of checks against barred lists added an additional layer of protection.
Continuous Monitoring
DBS checks allow for continuous monitoring of an individual’s criminal record. This means that if someone is added to a barred list after their initial check, their employer can be notified. This continuous updating enhances the safeguarding process.
Portability
The portability of DBS certificates simplifies the employment process for individuals who may work in multiple roles or with different organisations. They can present their existing certificate, and employers can verify its validity online.
Streamlined Services
The transition to DBS checks also aimed to streamline services and improve the efficiency of background checks. This transition consolidated various background check services into a single authority, the Disclosure and Barring Service.
‘Can I use my DBS for any role’?
Always check with your employer or the organisation you are volunteering with as many of them do request that you complete a DBS through their system. However, the DBS system brings with it many benefits, including portability.
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is portable, which means that you can carry it with you from one job or role to another. This portability is a key feature of DBS checks and offers several advantages:
Reduced Administrative Burden: Portability eliminates the need for individuals to undergo new background checks for each job or role that requires one. This reduces the administrative burden on both individuals and employers.
Consistency and Efficiency: Portability ensures that an individual’s background check information remains consistent and up to date. This is particularly important when working in roles that involve vulnerable groups, as it provides continuous monitoring of an individual’s suitability.
Streamlined Employment Processes: Employers can verify the validity of an existing DBS certificate online, which simplifies the hiring process. This reduces delays and administrative tasks associated with requesting and waiting for new background checks for each job.
Privacy and Confidentiality: Portability helps protect an individual’s privacy by minimising the sharing of sensitive personal information with multiple employers. Instead of disclosing extensive personal details repeatedly, individuals can provide their DBS certificate as proof of their background check status.
Cost Savings: For both individuals and employers, portability can lead to cost savings. Avoiding the expense of multiple background checks for the same individual is beneficial for all parties involved.
Flexibility in Job Mobility: Individuals who move between jobs or roles within different organisations can do so more easily, as they can carry their DBS certificate with them. This flexibility is particularly advantageous in sectors where employees frequently change employers or roles.
When did DBS checks start? From CRB to DBS
The transition from CRB to DBS occurred over several years, and it was a phased process. Here’s a brief timeline of the key milestones:
- Formation of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS): The DBS was officially established in December 2012. It was created through a merger of the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).
- Transition Period: 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, employers and individuals could still use existing CRB checks.
- Full Implementation of DBS Checks: 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.
The transition from CRB to DBS checks in the UK marked a significant evolution in the background check system. While the core purpose of these checks remains the same – to provide information about an individual’s criminal history – the introduction of enhanced checks, continuous monitoring, and the portability of certificates has improved safeguarding measures and made the process more efficient. The change from CRB to DBS reflects the commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that employers have access to the most up-to-date information for making informed decisions about the suitability of individuals for specific roles. Understanding the timeline of this transition and the key differences between CRB and DBS checks is essential for individuals and employers alike to navigate the background check process effectively and responsibly.
