05/08/2015
The CQC (Care Quality Commission) has been criticised for its inability to raise awareness of its updated services. The organisation, which is tasked with inspecting care, requires that individuals seeking employment in the care sector undergo a criminal records check known as a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check (formerly CRB check). This is in order to attest to the potential employee’s good character and suitability for working with children and/or vulnerable adults.
The problem is that most care professionals have remained unaware of the changes imposed by the CQC and its overhaul of the DBS Disclosure Service which was recently moved online. This failure to communicate these basic changes to fundamental aspects of health care regulation has resulted in confusion and has left many unaware as a result.
Mr Asif Yusuf, the managing director of Targeted Recruitment Ltd was quoted as saying that “Far too many jobseekers don’t know about the DBS update service. This is causing delays for those looking for employment and recruiters in the care sector.”
The purpose of this article is therefore to raise awareness of these updated online services for potential applicants. There is an online website dedicated to providing information regarding the DBS service update at https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service
As a result of being made aware of the changes, the good news is that applicants can now update their DBS certificates online. For those of you used to dealing with the time consuming paper based version, this will come as a welcome relief.
The most important thing to remember when utilising this service is that there are time constraints. It is advisable that you register online at https://secure.crbonline.gov.uk/crsc/apply?execution=e1s1 as soon as you get your registration number. You should ask for this number when you apply for your DBS check. Alternatively, you can wait and register once you get your DBS certificate. Simply input the certificate number provided but be sure to do it within 19 days of the certificate being issued or you will be too late.
This service is cost effective at just £13 per year and will allow multiple prospective employers to check your details online for free instantly. As a result of the new Update Service, your certificate will only be sent to you and will no longer be sent to a registered body. This change is known as the ‘One Certificate’ policy.
Further details regarding everything concerning the DBS Update Service can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-update-service-applicant-guide
