Why Every Professional Working with Children Should Join the DBS Update Service

When working with children and young people under the age of 18, it is crucial to hold an Enhanced DBS certificate and, equally importantly, ensure that it is registered with the DBS Update Service.

Having helped professionals obtain DBS checks for over 25 years, I am continually surprised by how many people are not advised to join the Update Service when they receive their certificate through an employer, whether that is a nursery, school, college, or other childcare setting.

Many professionals are unaware that a DBS certificate is only a snapshot of an individual's record on the day it was issued. Without the Update Service, there is no way for employers to verify whether the information remains current. As a result, when applying for a new role, employers may require a completely new DBS check, causing unnecessary delays.

The DBS Update Service helps prevent this issue. However, registration must be completed within 28 days of the DBS certificate being issued. Missing this deadline means you cannot add that certificate to the service later.

Joining the Update Service is a simple but important part of professional practice. Once registered, you pay an annual fee of just £16 through the GOV.UK website, and your DBS status can be kept up to date and checked by authorised employers when required.

One of the biggest advantages is flexibility. An Enhanced DBS registered with the Update Service can often be used when moving between suitable roles, helping to make the recruitment process quicker and smoother. This can be particularly valuable for supply staff, agency workers, and professionals who change roles within education or childcare.

I always ensure my own DBS remains up to date through the Update Service. As a result, when job opportunities arise, I am ready to start the recruitment process immediately, without waiting for a new DBS application to be processed.

It is also important to remember that there is no guaranteed timescale for a DBS application to be completed. Processing times can vary significantly, and delays may affect your ability to start a new position on time. Therefore, before applying for a new role that requires a DBS check, it is wise to ensure your Update Service subscription is active and your certificate remains current.

In a profession where safeguarding is paramount, maintaining an up-to-date DBS status demonstrates responsibility, professionalism, and a commitment to best practice. For a small annual fee, the DBS Update Service offers peace of mind for both employees and employers and can save valuable time when new opportunities arise.