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A DBS check is a background check to make sure someone is safe to work with vulnerable people.
It looks at someone’s criminal record (if they have one) to help employers decide if they’re suitable for certain types of jobs — especially jobs involving children, elderly people, or sensitive information.
Think of it like this:
Hiring someone to work in a school, hospital, or care home?
You want to make sure they’re trustworthy and don’t have a dangerous past.
That’s what a DBS check helps you find out.
It can show:
Past criminal convictions or cautions
Whether someone is barred from working with children or vulnerable adults
Other relevant police information (in some cases)
Why it matters:
It helps employers protect people and make informed hiring decisions — it’s about safety, trust, and doing due diligence.
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