GovWire

DBS checks

You will need to have an enhanced check with barred lists (previously known as CRB, or criminal record checks), if you want to look after children for a living.

The Disclosure and Barring Service carries out enhanced checks with barred lists on anyone working with children, to make sure the children are safe.

DBS checks usually take about 6 weeks and the fees can be found in the guidance on DBS checks.

At the end you will get a certificate which you can show to parents or employers.

You will need the certificate to register with Ofsted.

Who needs to be checked

You may need to go through a DBS check if you work directly with children or run the childcare organisation, for example as a:

• childminder
• childminding assistant
• nanny
• playgroup owner
• childrens home director

Checks for people in your home

If youre a childminder looking after children at home then any adults who live with you or work there regularly during childcare hours will also need a DBS check.

This could include your partner, cleaner, housemates, lodgers and children over the age of 16.

Find out more about people connected with Ofsted-registered childcare.

Getting a DBS check

You will need:

• a debit or credit card
• your home addresses for the past 5 years

Apply now

Identity checking form

Once you have applied online you will have to download and fill in the identity checking form.

You need to get a professional like a teacher, nurse or accountant to fill in and sign section B of the form.

This has to be a UK resident you have known for at least a year. It cant be a relative or someone you live with.You can use the Post Office document certification service if you cant find anyone to sign the form. This costs 10.50.

ID documents

You will need to show the professional your ID documents, like a:

• passport
• driving licence
• utility bills
• bank statement

Return the ID checking form

Scan and email the form to ofsteddbs@securitywatchdog.org.uk or post it to the address on the form.

Waiting for your certificate

You should get your certificate within 6 weeks. It can sometimes take a lot longer, for example if youve lived in different places.

If youre still waiting after 6 weeks then you could contact DBS.

DBS update service

Ofsted will only accept a DBS certificate within 3 months of the issue date. Because of this, Ofsted strongly recommends that you sign up for the DBS update service to keep your certificate up to date. This costs 13 a year.

If you dont join the DBS update service, and there are issues or mistakes that delay your application, you might have to get a new DBS check.

If you join the service, you can then use your DBS for any new jobs or roles with children. You wont have to apply for a new certificate each time. It also means that if Ofsted needs to repeat your DBS check in the future, for example if your circumstances change, they can do this without you having to pay a fee for a new check.

You have to subscribe to the DBS update service within 30 days of your certificate being issued.

If you already have a DBS certificate

You may be able to use an existing DBS certificate if you have an enhanced certificate for a childcare role.

It will have to say its for a home-based position if you are applying to be a childminder.

We can usually accept existing certificates of this type if youre signed up to the DBS update service.

If youre not signed up to the DBS update service, we can only accept your certificate if both apply:

• its dated in the last 3 months
• you obtained it through the Ofsted DBS application

If youre already registered with Ofsted

Ofsted may accept an older certificate if you are already registered with them and youre moving to a similar role.

A similar role would be one for the same type of childcare position, or a role that doesnt give you more access to children or greater responsibility.

Ofsted will only accept the certificate if you are starting your new position within 3 months of leaving your old one.

Childcare providers

Find out more about DBS checks for childcare providers.