The Disclosure and Barring Service has confirmed that fast-track and free-of-charge DBS checks will continue until at least the end of March 2023 (subject to further review).
In line with their previous communications, DBS expect usage of this service to be the exception to the rule, and only where there is an explicit and demonstrable link to the legal eligibility criteria. For example, recruitment of eligible roles in support of the COVID-19 vaccination programme.
DBS say employers should note that the speed of completing DBS checks will not be negatively impacted by using the normal application route. The temporary COVID-19 arrangements delivers fast-track barred list information but does not prioritise the completion of the full DBS check. If any delays to recruitment would impact on the delivery of care, employers may wish to consider the Adult First service.
The temporary emergency registers for healthcare professionals (Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), General Medical Council (GMC), and General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)) will remain open until 2024. These were introduced in response to the pandemic and had been due to close on 30 September 2022.
Source: DBS Update, 26 October 2022.
