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Not All UK Workers Need A DBS Clearance
September 03, 2018 posted by Steve Brownstein
What isn't widely known is that many jobs in the health and medical profession in the UK iare exempted from a completed DBS search. While the search is still accessible, there is no need to apply for the certificate.
Perhaps though, as a matter of due diligence, a background check should be conducted. For a certified background checke other than the DBS, Straightline International conducts UK searchesat all the Magistrates and Crown Courts.
Here is a breakdown of the inclusions:
Non-clinical staff
There is no general requirement for non-clinical staff (for example reception or administrative staff) to have a DBS check. This depends on their specific duties and responsibilities. Practices may not be breaching regulations if certain non-clinical staff have not received DBS checks. The practice should consider this on a case-by-case basis. For example:
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Access to medical records alone does not mean that non-clinical staff need to receive a DBS check.
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Non-clinical staff who carry out chaperone duties may require a DBS check due to the nature of these duties and the level of patient contact.
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Non-clinical staff who supervise a baby or child whilst their parent or carer is having an appointment will require a DBS check.
If a practice decides not to carry out a DBS check for any non-clinical staff they need to provide a clear rationale for the decision. This should, include an appropriate risk assessment.
