Safeguard Procedure DBS Checks

Section 6: Disclosure checks for voluntary sector organisations

DBS Checks in England and Wales

The checking service for adults working with children and young people and adults at risk is known as the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). 

There are three levels of DBS Check: Basic, Standard and Enhanced.  Basic and Standard checks highlight convictions.  Enhanced checks show whether a person has been barred from working with children, young people or adults at risk.  HRGB members who are regularly supervising young people, sometimes without other adults present, need to apply for an Enhanced DBS Check.

Applications for basic DBS Checks can be made by individuals at www/gov.uk/dbscheck.  Applications for enhanced checks need to be made through an umbrella organisation – in our case we can apply through Making Music. 

PVG Checks in Scotland

The checking service for adults working with children and young people and adults at risk is known as the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) membership scheme and is managed and delivered by Disclosure Scotland.  There are umbrella bodies providing disclosure check services. 

Volunteer Scotland provide free disclosure check services for voluntary sector organisations, including PVG applications for volunteers.  Volunteer Scotland also provide advice and guidance.