Would it surprise you to learn that 1.45 million people in the UK work in the care sector? And that the number is growing every year? Over the years we’ve transformed how society looks after the elderly and vulnerable. We don’t lock people up in institutions for decades any more, or keep them in hospital when they get older. People live at home, or go into residential care instead. They also need an army of care workers to look after their needs. As more of us live longer, the need for carers just keeps growing. If you’ve ever thought about a job in the industry, here’s what you need to know about the care sector and DBS checks.
What sort of care jobs are there?
In most cases, care jobs can be split into two broad categories. Firstly, there’s the group of people who work in residential homes with large numbers of residents. They could be qualified nurses, care workers, or doing jobs like cooking or crafts with the residents. The other main group of carers are people who allow elderly or disabled people to remain in their own homes. These carers come in two or three times a day and help with dressing, washing, giving medication or preparing meals.
DBS Checks for care workers
Both types of workers will require DBS checks. These are police checks designed to protect vulnerable adults, such as the elderly or disabled people. Most caring roles will need an enhanced DBS check. This is a more detailed level of check, and will reveal previous criminal convictions which might not be disclosed on a basic check. The idea behind the check is to give employers all of the information about someone’s background. Having the full picture then allows them to make a fair recruitment decision. A minor criminal record doesn’t stop you from applying for a care job. Employers will understand that we’re not all angels and some people have minor convictions in their past. However, an extensive criminal history involving sexual crimes, dishonesty or violence probably will.
Getting DBS checks
Whether you are applying to work in a residential home, or directly with clients in their own home, the application process is the same. The first step in
applying for a DBS check is to complete the application online. Take your time and make sure you complete all the required fields, leaving no gaps. Your employer will then ask to see some proof of identity and address. There is a long list of acceptable documentation, but most people use passport, driving licence, utility bills and bank statements. Then your form is checked by the DBS, and forwarded to the local police for checking. The police look through their database, and will disclose all convictions and cautions which they think are relevant to the position you have applied for. The DBS prints off your certificate and sends it to you in the post. Show it to your employer, and they might want to keep a copy for their records.
