Future changes to DBS checks
DBS is currently preparing to implement a number of changes which are planned to go live in late-October 2023.
There are three areas of change that will impact DBS checks:
- Introduction of changes to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) rules which dictate whether records are ‘spent’ or ‘unspent’ and which currently define what DBS disclose on Basic DBS checks.
- Alignment of the ‘Filtering rules’ that inform disclosure of records on Standard and Enhanced checks with the amended ROA rules; so that all unspent convictions and cautions are always disclosed. This change (which remains subject to approval by Parliament) means that anything disclosed on a Basic check will also be disclosed on a Standard or Enhanced check.
- Improvements to DBS systems for Standard and Enhanced checks which will mean DBS no longer issue manual certificates. Once implemented, all customers will receive a system generated certificate and will be able to use this to join the Update Service if they wish to.
DBS will be issuing further and more detailed communications around these changes over the next two months. This will include scenario-based guidance for applicants and employers explaining the impact on which records will be disclosed.
We will continue to keep you up to date with all developments and updates as they are being issued by DBS.