This guidance sets out Ofsteds position on Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for childcare providers who register with Ofsted and others who need them (eg people who live in a house where childcare takes place).
Updates to this page
Published 22 September 2014 Last updated 1 November 2024 +show all updates
Updated to include reference to the new childcare provider type, 'childminders without domestic premises', following changes introduced by the Department of Educations EYFS framework, published on 1 November 2024. We have also clarified that we do not require DBS checks for staff working in the same premises as a childminder without domestic premises, but who are not looking after children.
Changes to the guidance about signing up to the DBS update service: this is strongly recommended but no longer mandatory.
