Published November 20, 2025 Written by Hamza Irfan

What nurseries need to know about DBS checks

When it comes to early years, keeping the children in your establishment safe is critical. That’s why DBS checks exist. They help you make sure the people you’re hiring are safe and suitable to work around children.

But with so many different types of check out there, as well as legal rules, and rescreening requirements to consider, it can all get a bit confusing. Which level of check applies to which role? How often should checks be repeated? And what happens if you get it wrong?

Good news, NDNA’s Corporate Partner uCheck, trusted by more than 2,000 members, is here to help you navigate checks smoothly and hire with confidence.

What is a DBS check?

A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is basically a record of someone’s criminal history. It helps you make safer hiring decisions. In care, they’re essential both legally and ethically.

Four levels of DBS check 

The DBS has four types of check available: 

Basic DBS: Shows any unspent convictions. This is usually for jobs with no direct contact with vulnerable people, like roles in admin or maintenance. 
Standard DBS: Includes spent and unspent convictions, cautions and warnings. Think of it as a more detailed background check for positions of trust. 
Enhanced DBS: Goes even further, adding relevant information from local police. This is what you’ll need for frontline early years care roles. 
Enhanced with barred list: The most detailed check. It includes everything above, plus a search against the government’s list of people banned from working with vulnerable groups. This is legally required for regulated activity, like working directly with children.

When you can and can’t request a check

You can’t just request an Enhanced DBS because you’d like to. The role has to legally qualify for it. Over-checking could be seen as unfair or even discriminatory. At the same time, not doing enough checks could leave people at risk. The golden rule? Make sure the level of check matches the responsibilities of the job. 

When to re-check your DBS certificate

A common phrase is “you’re only as secure as your last check”. As an employer, you aren’t automatically notified if anything is updated on your employee’s DBS check, meaning there could be new information on there if they haven’t been checked in the last couple of years.

People’s circumstances change, and regular rescreening helps you stay safe and compliant. We recommend re-checking every two to three years, but you should also re-check if someone changes roles or comes back after a long break 

How uCheck makes everything easier

We know how overworked nurseries, day cares, and child-minding centres are – which is why we’re here to take the headache out of screening compliance. When teams are stretched thin, it’s easy for admin to fall to the wayside. So, our online platform gives you everything you need to complete your checks, all in one place.

No flicking through multiple tabs, no annoying cross-referencing; just a straightforward portal where you can submit as many checks as you need at once. What’s more, our amazing team are on hand to help guide you through what to do if you need help.

uCheck by your side

As an NDNA member, you can register for free on the uCheck platform (saving you more than £50!) and get lifetime access to our online portal. Simply visit here and use the code ‘NDNA-MEMBER’ at checkout. Already registered? Click here to start your next check.