Understanding background checks for childcare professionals in the UK, Europe, and the Middle East — what they cover, how to apply, and what employers need to know.
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check — formerly known as a CRB check — is an official background check carried out by the UK government. It verifies that a childcare professional has no criminal record or information that would make them unsuitable to work with children or vulnerable adults.
Families employing a live-in or live-out nanny, maternity nurse, governess, or nanny/PA should be aware that whilst it is preferable to engage candidates with a recent DBS disclosure, the certificate should not be relied upon as the sole measure of a nanny's childcare capabilities or credibility as a carer. It is one important part of a thorough vetting process.
A DBS check is only accurate at the time of issue — it does not have an expiry date. Many employers require a check dated within the last 12 months or will request a new check before employment begins. We no longer provide a DBS service directly, but we recommend Total Screening UK (formerly Total CRB) — a government-appointed umbrella organisation.
For positions involving some contact with children or vulnerable adults, and for certain higher-responsibility roles such as accountancy. The most limited level of check.
For positions with greater or more regular contact with children or vulnerable adults — including teachers, nurses, midwives, doctors, social workers, and judicial appointments.
The most comprehensive check. In addition to everything on a Standard Disclosure, it includes an additional check with local police records for any relevant information not resulting in a criminal record.
DBS checks do not expire automatically, but employers may require a check dated within the last 12 months — or request a new check be completed before you start. The DBS Update Service (£13/year) allows employers to check your certificate status online, avoiding the need for repeated full applications.
As an agency supplying nannies to families, we do not directly employ candidates and cannot legally compel them to obtain a DBS check. We do, however, strongly encourage all registered candidates to hold a current Enhanced DBS certificate and to maintain it through the Update Service. Ultimately, the decision rests with the individual candidate.
Obtain an Enhanced DBS check before beginning their job search
Subscribe to the DBS Update Service for £13 per year
Keep their original certificate safe and readily available
Be fully transparent with potential employers about their check
Apply for a new check promptly if requested by an employer
Always request to see the original DBS certificate — not a photocopy
Check the date of issue and consider whether a fresh check is needed
Use the DBS Update Service to verify the certificate's current status online
Treat the DBS as one part of a comprehensive vetting process — not the only one
Verify identity documents alongside the certificate at interview
When working overseas you may need to have your DBS certificate apostilled or attested to verify its authenticity for use in another country. Both processes confirm that the document is genuine — the method required depends on the destination country.
An apostille is an official certification that authenticates the origin of a public document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. It is issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in the UK.
Where it is used: Most European countries, Australia, the USA, and the majority of Hague Convention signatories.
Attestation is a similar authentication process used for countries that are not members of the Hague Convention. It typically requires legalisation through the relevant country's embassy or consulate in the UK.
Where it is needed: UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and other Middle Eastern countries not party to the Hague Convention.
Allow 2–6 weeks for apostille and attestation services. If you are preparing for an overseas placement, begin this process as early as possible — do not leave it until after your start date is confirmed.
Always conduct thorough reference checks alongside the DBS
Request to see the original certificate — not a photocopy
Check the date of issue — many families prefer checks within the last 12 months
Consider requesting a new check before employment begins
Verify identity documents at the same time as the DBS certificate
Use the DBS as one component of a comprehensive vetting process
Obtain an Enhanced DBS check before starting your job search
Subscribe to the DBS Update Service (£13/year) to avoid repeat applications
Keep your original certificate safe and readily available
Be prepared to apply for a new check if an employer requests one
Research specific country requirements early if planning to work overseas
Budget time and cost for apostille or attestation if heading abroad
Never alter, copy, or misrepresent information on your DBS certificate
We recommend Total Screening UK (formerly Total CRB) — a government-appointed umbrella organisation for processing DBS applications. We no longer process DBS applications directly, but Total Screening UK can handle your application quickly and professionally.
Our consultants can advise on DBS requirements, right-to-work checks, and everything else you need to make a safe and confident placement.
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