Basic DBS Check
Basic DBS checks showing unspent convictions only. Secure digital screening for employers across the UK. Fast, compliant criminal record checks at scale.
Basic DBS Checks for Employers
A Basic DBS check is the most widely used criminal record check in the UK and shows any unspent convictions and conditional cautions recorded against an individual.
It provides a disclosure of unspent convictions and conditional cautions and can be requested for a wide range of employment, and compliance purposes.
Basic DBS checks help organisations confirm trust when recruiting staff, contractors or volunteers.
We deliver secure, compliant Basic DBS screening for employers across the UK. Our digital platform allows organisations to process criminal record checks efficiently while maintaining full visibility and audit readiness.
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What Is a Basic DBS Check?
A Basic DBS check provides a simple criminal record disclosure showing any unspent convictions and conditional cautions recorded against an individual. Unlike Standard or Enhanced DBS checks, Basic disclosures do not include spent convictions or additional police intelligence.
Because they are not restricted by eligibility criteria, Basic DBS checks can be used for a wide range of purposes, including general employment screening.
They are often used as part of broader employment screening programmes where organisations need reassurance that candidates meet integrity standards.
Get in Touch Comparing the level of DBS check
Basic
Unspent Convictions
Unspent conditional cautions (Subject to filtering rules)
Spent Convictions (Subject to filtering rules)
Cautions / Warnings (Other)
Local police information
Barred list check (If eligible)
Standard
Unspent Convictions
Unspent conditional cautions (Subject to filtering rules)
Spent Convictions (Subject to filtering rules)
Cautions / Warnings (Other)
Local police information
Barred list check (If eligible)
Enhanced
Unspent Convictions
Unspent conditional cautions (Subject to filtering rules)
Spent Convictions (Subject to filtering rules)
Cautions / Warnings (Other)
Local police information
Barred list check (If eligible)
What Does a Basic DBS Check Show?
A Basic DBS certificate will show:
- Unspent criminal convictions
- Unspent conditional cautions
It will not include:
- Spent convictions
- Cautions, reprimands or warnings
- Police intelligence
- Barred list checks
When Are Basic DBS Checks Used?
Basic DBS checks are commonly used where employers need a criminal record check, but where a standard or enhanced disclosure are not eligible.
Typical uses include:
- General employment roles
- Contractor onboarding
- Positions involving financial responsibility
- Roles requiring trust and integrity
Where roles involve safeguarding responsibilities or regulated activity, organisations may instead require Standard DBS checks or Enhanced DBS checks.
Basic DBS Checks for Employers
Many organisations use Basic DBS checks as part of their wider employment screening process. They provide an additional level of reassurance when recruiting staff, contractors or temporary workers and can support organisations in demonstrating responsible hiring practices.
When implemented within structured recruitment processes, Basic DBS checks can help organisations:
- Confirm baseline trust and integrity
- Strengthen internal risk management processes
- Meet regulatory or contractual expectations
- Protect customers, employees and the public
CBS supports employers with scalable Basic DBS screening that integrates seamlessly into recruitment workflows.
Identity Verification Requirements
Before a Basic DBS application can be submitted, the applicant’s identity must be verified using approved verification procedures. Accurate identity verification is essential to ensure the application is processed correctly and to prevent delays caused by incorrect information.
CBS provides structured identity verification processes, including secure digital identity validation. This ensures applications are accurate and reduces the risk of rejected or delayed checks.
Basic DBS Checks Across the UK
Basic criminal record disclosures are available across the UK through the relevant national disclosure bodies.
- England & Wales – Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
- Scotland – Disclosure Scotland (also known as Level 1 disclosures)
- Northern Ireland – AccessNI
Organisations recruiting across multiple UK jurisdictions can manage screening through a single digital platform.
Learn more about Disclosure Scotland & PVG Checks or AccessNI Checks.
How Long Does a Basic DBS Check Take?
Processing times vary depending on the accuracy of the application and current processing volumes. Typical turnaround times for Basic DBS checks are usually completed within 1–5 working days. Ensuring information such as address history are correct helps reduce any delays.
Our solutions guarantee 100% submission rate with zero errors
Basic DBS Checks FAQs
Basic DBS checks can be requested by individuals or employers and are not restricted by eligibility criteria.
No. Barred list searches are only included with Enhanced DBS checks where safeguarding eligibility criteria are met.
The certificate is issued directly to the applicant. Employers receive application updates and audit records through the CBS platform.
Why Organisations Choose CBS for Basic DBS Checks
Organisations choose CBS for:
- Scalable criminal record screening
- Experienced screening specialists providing hands-on support
- Over 1 million checks processed annually
- Structured digital screening workflows
- Real-time application tracking
- ISO 27001 certified processes
- Secure document management
- Dedicated compliance support
CBS provides more than Basic DBS checks. Our secure platform delivers structured screening infrastructure built for organisations operating under safeguarding and regulatory scrutiny. Behind the technology is our experienced screening team providing hands-on guidance to help employers navigate eligibility, safeguarding requirements and complex recruitment decisions with confidence.
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