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What is a Basic DBS Check?

A Basic DBS Check is a criminal record check that shows unspent convictions and conditional cautions held on the Police National Computer (PNC). It is the lowest level of DBS check and is available to any individual or organisation, for any role or purpose.

What does a Basic DBS Check show?

A Basic DBS Check includes:

  • Unspent criminal convictions

  • Unspent conditional cautions

It does not include:

  • Spent convictions

  • Police intelligence

  • Barred list information

The disclosure is issued in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.

Who can request a Basic DBS Check?

A Basic DBS Check can be requested by:

  • Employers

  • Charities and voluntary organisations

  • Individuals (self-applications)

  • Organisations recruiting staff or volunteers

There are no role or industry restrictions for Basic DBS Checks.

When is a Basic DBS Check used?

Basic DBS Checks are commonly used for roles that:

  • Do not involve regulated activity

  • Do not involve unsupervised work with children or vulnerable adults

  • Require a basic level of criminal record disclosure

If higher safeguarding requirements apply, a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check may be required instead.

How long is a Basic DBS Check valid for?

A Basic DBS Check does not have an official expiry date.

Organisations decide how long a DBS check remains acceptable based on:

  • Internal policy

  • Regulatory requirements

  • Risk assessment

How far back does a Basic DBS Check go?

A Basic DBS Check only shows unspent convictions at the time the check is issued.

Once a conviction becomes spent under the ROA, it will no longer appear on a Basic DBS certificate.

Is a Basic DBS Check suitable for safeguarding roles?

A Basic DBS Check may not be suitable for roles involving:

  • Children

  • Vulnerable adults

  • Regulated activity

In these cases, a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check is usually required.

How does a Basic DBS Check support organisations?

Basic DBS Checks help organisations to:

  • Make informed recruitment decisions

  • Meet internal screening requirements

  • Demonstrate due diligence

  • Support safer recruitment practices

Summary

A Basic DBS Check provides a snapshot of an individual’s unspent criminal record at the time of issue. It is widely used across industries where a basic level of disclosure is required and forms part of a wider employment screening process.