DBS checks

Independent Lives provides a range of services to support people who receive Direct Payments

Most councils and clinical commissioning groups require all new PAs to have a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check no older than three months. We make getting a DBS check for your employee, simple, fast and straightforward.

Independent Lives can help you to ensure that your Personal Assistants are fully DBS checked. Our highly trained and helpful staff are on hand to make the process of getting DBS checks as straightforward and simple as possible.

What are DBS checks and why are they important?

A DBS check is a record of a person's criminal convictions and cautions. DBS checks are essential for safe recruitment, and ensuring that unsuitable people are not working with vulnerable adults or children.
To complete a DBS check, PAs must submit an online application and three forms of identification. The application will then be sent off for processing.
Once the DBS check is completed, the PA will receive their certificate in the post. You need to see the PA’s original certificate, and are not allowed to make copies of this.
PAs working with children must never be left unsupervised until they are DBS checked.
Contact Independent Lives if the PA's DBS certificate shows ANY convictions, cautions or reprimands, as the PA’s suitability will need to be assessed.
Each funder will have different requirements regarding DBS checks, please contact Independent Lives using the information below to find out more.