Disclosure and Barring Service: Handling and Security of DBS Disclosure Information Policy

Scope and Purpose of Policy

This policy outlines this care service’s approach to the handling and security of information obtained as a result of receiving Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) criminal records checks. The policy applies to all staff groups for whom criminal records checks are required in line with the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012.

As the law stands the service is required to make criminal records checks for successful applicants of all care-related positions, particularly those that fall within the description of “regulated activity” (as defined by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012). These are made by carrying out DBS checks in line with its procedures.

All care worker roles are defined as regulated activity and, therefore, the service is required to carry out enhanced criminal records checks of all successful applicants for these posts. As a result, the service is required to “handle” the information that they receive from these checks with great care and sensitivity in line with data protection laws and the DBS’s own Code of Practice.

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