If you are applying for a job in childcare, healthcare, or any role that involves working with vulnerable people, you have probably heard of a DBS check. It is a vital part of the recruitment process that helps employers make safer hiring decisions. But what is the DBS Update Service, and why is it worth signing up for?
When you have a standard or enhanced DBS certificate, it is only accurate at the point it is issued. If you apply for another job later on, you might be asked to get a new DBS check, even if nothing has changed. That means more paperwork, more waiting, and another fee.
The DBS Update Service is an online subscription that keeps your certificate up to date and allows employers to check it quickly with your permission. Instead of applying for a new DBS check every time you change jobs, your current one can be used again, as long as the role is the same type and at the same level of check.
This is especially useful if you work in sectors like childcare or adult social care in Dudley, Sedgley, or across the Black Country. Many people take on short-term, part-time, or seasonal roles, which often means multiple DBS checks over a short period. With the Update Service, you can avoid unnecessary delays and costs.
The service costs £13 a year, and you can register as soon as you receive your certificate number. It is simple to manage, and once set up, it can be used by any employer who needs to check your status. They will not see your full record, just whether there have been any changes since your certificate was issued.
Employers prefer candidates who are already on the Update Service, as it speeds up the process and reduces admin. For you, it means greater flexibility and less time waiting for paperwork to clear.
If you are serious about working in care, education, or healthcare, joining the DBS Update Service is a smart choice. It gives you more control over your job search and shows that you take your responsibilities seriously.
