Enhanced DBS Checks with CRBonline
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All About Enhanced DBS Checks
What is the Enhanced DBS Check?
What does an Enhanced DBS Check cost?
What is an Enhanced DBS Check with Barred Lists?
Who can request an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS Check cannot be requested by an individual acting on their own behalf. It must be initiated by a registered organisation or employer with a valid and lawful reason to request such a high level of disclosure. This requirement helps ensure that Enhanced Checks are only used when absolutely necessary and in accordance with safeguarding laws.
1. Registered Organisations
Only organisations that are officially registered with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) can request Enhanced Checks directly. These are usually larger employers, government departments, or statutory bodies that regularly carry out safeguarding-related recruitment, such as:
- NHS Trusts
- Schools and academies
- Local authorities
- Police forces
- Care providers
Registered bodies are legally responsible for ensuring that the roles they submit applications for meet the eligibility criteria for Enhanced Checks.
2. Umbrella Bodies
Smaller organisations or employers that aren’t registered with the DBS can still obtain Enhanced DBS Checks by going through a government-approved umbrella body. Umbrella bodies act as intermediaries and are authorised to process Enhanced DBS checks on behalf of third parties.
They help:
Confirm whether a role is eligible for an Enhanced Check.
Ensure correct completion of the application forms.
Submit the applications to the DBS on behalf of the employer.
Examples of umbrella bodies include companies like CRBOnline
What about Sole Traders?
If you’re a sole trader, such as a self-employed tutor, carer, or contractor working directly with children or vulnerable adults, the situation with Enhanced DBS Checks is a bit more complex—but not impossible.
A sole trader cannot apply for an Enhanced DBS Check on their own because individuals are not permitted to submit this type of check independently.
However, there are two main workarounds:
Option 1: Use CRBonline
Sole traders can go through a government-registered Umbrella body, such as CRBonline, to request an Enhanced DBS Check, but only if the role qualifies under the eligibility criteria (e.g. working in regulated activity).
You must clearly explain the nature of your work (e.g. tutoring children, providing personal care to adults).
We will assess whether your role is eligible.
Option 2: Request Through a Contracting Organisation
If you’re working under contract for a school, care provider, local authority, or agency, that organisation can request the Enhanced DBS Check for you.
What shows up on an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS Check is the most detailed type of criminal record check available in the UK. It provides employers or authorised organisations with a thorough view of an individual’s background, especially when the role involves working with children or vulnerable adults.
Here’s what appears on an Enhanced DBS Check:
1. Convictions, Cautions, Warnings, and Reprimands
- Spent convictions (those that would normally be considered “wiped” after a rehabilitation period under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974).
- Unspent convictions (those still considered active).
- Formal police cautions, warnings, and reprimands.
2. Local Police Information (Relevant Police Intelligence)
The local police can include any non-conviction information they hold that is considered relevant to the specific role.
Examples may include:
Allegations that didn’t lead to arrest or prosecution.
Information from investigations that were dropped.
Suspected involvement in criminal activity or safeguarding concerns.
This information is disclosed at the discretion of the Chief Police Officer, and only if they believe it’s relevant and necessary to disclose for safeguarding.
3. Barred List Checks (Optional)
If requested, the Enhanced DBS Check can include checks against one or both of the following:
Children’s Barred List
Adults’ Barred List
These are lists of individuals who are legally banned from working with children or vulnerable adults due to serious safeguarding risks.
What doesn't show up on an Enhanced DBS Check?
Civil matters like County Court Judgments (CCJs) or unpaid debts.
Parking fines, fixed penalty notices, or similar minor issues.
Anything not considered relevant by local police (in the case of non-conviction information).
Minor convictions/cautions that are subject to filtering rules. Very old convictions, and youth convictions, can be filtered out of and Enhanced DBS Check.
Filtering is the process used to decide which criminal record information is shown on Standard or Enhanced DBS Checks. Certain minor or older offences are excluded from disclosure, these are known as ‘protected’ offences.
However, there is a list of ‘specified offences’ that are always disclosed, unless the offence was a youth caution. These generally involve serious crimes such as sexual offences, violent acts, or anything relevant to the safeguarding of children or vulnerable adults.
In addition, any conviction that resulted in a custodial sentence, even if the sentence was suspended, will always be included on an Enhanced DBS Check, regardless of how long ago it occurred.
Finally, most youth cautions, warnings, and reprimands are no longer automatically disclosed on Enhanced DBS Checks. However, Youth Conditional Cautions may still appear depending on the circumstances.
How to Apply for an Enhanced DBS Check
CRBonline is a cutting-edge, AI-powered web platform designed to streamline how organisations manage their DBS check requirements online. The system simplifies every step of the process, offering intelligent guidance and automation from start to finish.
Getting Started
After registering for an account, your organisation will receive a secure login. From there, you can add internal users—such as HR or safeguarding staff—and assign them appropriate permissions to manage Enhanced DBS checks on behalf of your organisation.
Initiating a DBS Check
To begin a new Enhanced DBS check, you simply enter the applicant’s name and email address into the system. The platform then sends them an email invitation to access their application form.
When the applicant clicks the link and sets up their password, they’ll be clearly guided through the application with AI-powered form validation to help prevent common errors—such as invalid National Insurance numbers or incomplete address histories.
Verifying ID and Submitting the Check
Once the applicant submits their part, you’ll receive a notification prompting you to complete the ID verification. You’ll need to confirm which ID documents were seen, and the system’s intelligent validation will ensure that the documentation meets the minimum legal requirements. It will alert you as soon as the correct combination has been recorded.
Next, the system will guide you to select:
- The appropriate DBS check level (Basic, Standard, or Enhanced),
- The job role,
- Whether to include Barred List checks,
- If the role is voluntary,
- And whether it’s a home-based position.
The platform’s AI helps prevent errors by flagging issues with eligibility based on your selections.
Payment Options
After finalising the check details, payment can be made in one of several ways:
- Pay-as-you-go,
- Prepaid credit bundles, or
- Delegated billing, where the applicant receives the invoice and pays directly…ideal for organisations that require applicants to cover their own Enhanced DBS check costs.
Submission and Results
Once payment is received or credits are applied, the Enhanced DBS application is instantly and securely submitted to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Both you and the applicant will be notified and provided with the unique application reference number and a direct link to track the status of the check in real time.
When the check is complete:
- The applicant receives their official paper Enhanced DBS certificate in the post.
- Your organisation will receive an electronic summary of the Enhanced DBS result through the platform.
Throughout the process, the built-in AI keeps both parties informed with timely updates and ensures transparency at every stage.
Need to ask a question before registering…?
If you are already a customer, please login and use the regular support channels on the platform
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most popular questions we get about Enhanced DBS Checks
How much does an Enhanced DBS Check cost?
When applying for a DBS check through an Umbrella Body, the total cost typically includes two parts.
The first part is the fixed fee charged by the Disclosure and Barring Service. This cost remains the same regardless of how many applications are submitted. The fee is £49.50 for an Enhanced DBS check, including checks with the Adults’ and/or Children’s Barred Lists.
The second part is the administrative fee charged by the Umbrella Body for handling the application. This fee can vary depending on the number of checks being processed. At CRBonline, admin fees start from £4.00 per application.
Which identification documents are required for an Enhanced DBS Check?
Applicants undergoing an Enhanced DBS check must provide identification documents to an authorised ID checker within the client organisation. The exact documents required will depend on what the applicant has available, but all must be valid and up to date. These requirements are set by the Disclosure and Barring Service to ensure accurate identity verification.
For the most current guidelines on accepted documents, visit here
What is an Adult First Check, and is it the same as an Adults' Barred List check?
An Adults’ Barred List check and an Adult First check are connected but serve different purposes.
The Adults’ Barred List check is an optional part of an Enhanced DBS check. It involves checking whether the applicant is legally barred from carrying out Regulated Activity with adults. Regulated Activity includes responsibilities such as providing healthcare, personal care, or managing finances for vulnerable adults.
Some positions are eligible for an Enhanced DBS check, while others also qualify for an Adults’ Barred List check. For example, a care home receptionist may be eligible for an Enhanced DBS check, but because they are not involved in Regulated Activity, they are not eligible for the barred list check. In contrast, a care assistant who provides personal care would require both an Enhanced DBS check and an Adults’ Barred List check.
An Adult First check is a quick check against the Adults’ Barred List and can only be requested if an Enhanced DBS check with Adults’ Barred List is underway. The result is usually returned within 72 hours and will confirm either that the applicant is not on the list or that further checks are needed. If further checks are required, it does not automatically mean the person is on the list.
There is no price difference between an Enhanced DBS check with or without the Adults’ Barred List. The Adult First check is optional and carries a small additional charge.
At this time, there is no equivalent rapid service available for checking the Children’s Barred List.
What is the Adults' Barred List?
The Adults’ Barred List is a confidential register held by the Disclosure and Barring Service, listing individuals who are legally prohibited from carrying out Regulated Activity with vulnerable adults.
Regulated Activity in this context refers to specific tasks such as providing personal care or managing a vulnerable adult’s finances. A full breakdown of what qualifies as Regulated Activity can be found in the official guidance.
A person may be included on the Adults’ Barred List even if they have no criminal convictions. Being barred is a legal restriction and does not require a criminal record.
An Enhanced DBS check may or may not include a check against the Adults’ Barred List, depending on the role’s eligibility. For example, a cleaner working in a care home is not involved in Regulated Activity and would not qualify for a barred list check. In contrast, someone providing personal care in the same setting would.
There is no difference in cost between an Enhanced DBS check with the Adults’ Barred List included and one without it.
What is the Children's Barred List?
The Children’s Barred List is a confidential register held by the Disclosure and Barring Service, listing individuals who are legally banned from working with children.
A person can be included on this list without having a criminal record. Being barred is a legal status, and inclusion does not depend on a conviction.
Whether an Enhanced DBS check includes a check against the Children’s Barred List depends on the role. If the position involves working solely with adults, it would not qualify for this check.
There is no cost difference between an Enhanced DBS check that includes the Children’s Barred List and one that does not.
What is the DBS Update Service?
The DBS Update Service is a subscription-based option from the Disclosure and Barring Service that allows individuals and employers to keep DBS checks up to date and check their status online. It effectively turns a one-off Enhanced DBS certificate into a continuously maintainable record.
After receiving an Enhanced DBS certificate, an individual can join the Update Service for £16 per year. This must be done within 30 days of the certificate being issued or during the application process using the reference number from the form.
Once subscribed, the certificate can be reused for multiple positions, provided each role requires the same level of check and falls under the same workforce group, such as working with children or adults. To stay active, the subscription must be renewed every year.
Employers, with the individual’s permission, can carry out a free online check to confirm whether the Enhanced DBS certificate remains current. The system will respond with either “This Certificate is up to date,” meaning there are no new details, or “Certificate needs to be renewed” or “Contact DBS,” which may indicate changes that need further investigation and could require a new DBS check.
The check is done using the Enhanced DBS certificate number, the individual’s name, and date of birth, with their consent.
More information can be found here.
What does an Enhanced DBS Check look for?
An Enhanced DBS check is the most comprehensive level of criminal background screening used in the UK, typically necessary for roles that involve direct contact with children, vulnerable individuals, or positions that carry a high degree of responsibility. This check reveals both spent and unspent convictions, along with cautions, reprimands, and warnings that are recorded on the Police National Computer. While some offences may be excluded based on filtering rules, a wide range of criminal records can still be disclosed.
What sets the Enhanced DBS Check apart is that it may also include information from local police forces. This can cover relevant non-conviction details, such as ongoing investigations or allegations, if the Police deem the information important to the role in question.
Additionally, an Enhanced DBS check can involve a search of the barred lists to determine if an individual is prohibited from working with children or vulnerable adults. These checks are only performed when explicitly requested.
This level of screening is commonly required for jobs in education, healthcare, social services, and other fields where safeguarding is essential. The aim of the Enhanced DBS Check is to provide employers with a clear picture of a candidate’s background to ensure a safe and secure environment for those in their care.
How long does an Enhanced DBS Check take?
Enhanced DBS Checks go to Local Police Forces. These can be very quick, back the same day, but on average they take longer than Standard and Basic DBS Checks.
How do I get an Enhanced DBS Check for my Employees \ Volunteers?
If you an organisation looking for Enhanced DBS Checks, then you first need to register with us by clicking here
You’ll receive a client login to our portal within one working day. From there you can start to add the individuals that need the DBS Checks.
They’ll get their own Applicant login, which they use to log in and complete their side of the DBS application form. You’ll be notified they have completed their side of the DBS Check. Thereafter, you log into the Client side of the portal and enter the ID checks, and select the DBS type you require. We then send it off electronically to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Once they have finished their processing, the Applicant will receive a physical certificate in the post. Within one day of the DBS Check certificate being printed, you will be able to access an electronic snapshot of the Enhanced DBS certificate.
The steps in the process are neatly signposted and the tracking information presentation is simple to follow.
How long is an Enhanced DBS Check valid?
A DBS check does not have an official expiry date. It reflects the individual’s criminal record status as of the date it was issued.
The information on the certificate is only accurate up to that point. Unlike a passport, it doesn’t expire after a set time, but it also won’t show any new offences or cautions that occur after the issue date. Because of this, employers should always take note of when a certificate was issued and decide whether a new check is necessary based on its age and the nature of the role.
In many industries, especially those involving vulnerable people, it is considered good practice, or is sometimes required by regulators, to carry out DBS checks on a regular basis. Every three years is a common standard.
How do I track an Enhanced DBS Check application?
All tracking details for an Enhanced DBS application are easily accessible to both employers and applicants by logging into our platform.
You can clearly see the progress of the application at each stage. Once it reaches the Disclosure and Barring Service, a dedicated button is available to take you directly to their official tracking system for real-time updates.
What is a Home-Based Position?
A Home-Based position refers to a role where the Enhanced DBS check applicant carries out regulated activity in their own home.
For example, a music teacher who teaches children at their own home would be considered to hold a Home-Based position.
In contrast, a home care worker providing personal care in the vulnerable adult’s home is not considered Home-Based for Enhanced DBS Check purposes.
These positions trigger additional checks by local police, so it’s important that only roles which genuinely meet the criteria are marked as Home-Based.
There is no difference in cost between an Enhanced DBS check for a Home-Based role and one that is not.
What are 'filtered' cautions and convictions?
Filtering is the process used to decide which criminal records appear on a Standard or Enhanced DBS check. Certain older or less serious offences are excluded from disclosure and are known as ‘protected’ offences.
However, there is a list of ‘specified offences’ that must always be disclosed, unless they involve a youth caution. These usually relate to serious crimes such as violent or sexual offences, or matters involving the protection of children or vulnerable adults.
Any conviction that led to a custodial sentence, including suspended sentences, will always be shown on a Standard or Enhanced DBS certificate.
Most youth cautions, warnings, and reprimands are no longer automatically included, but Youth Conditional Cautions may still be disclosed.
More information can be found here.