While people often refer to background checks more generally, there are a range of different organisations that actually carry out these checks. Two common checks in the UK are the DBS and PVG check, but what actually are they?
While similar, the DBS check and PVG scheme are separate processes, with distinct uses. In this article, we take a look at some of their similarities and differences, to learn which one you should be using for your organisation.
DBS vs PVG Checks
In short, no DBS and PVG checks are not the same. That being said, they are not entirely different - there is a certain amount of overlap.
DBS Checks
DBS checks are carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service (or DBS), for people working and living in England, Wales, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man. There are three different kinds of checks, depending on the role in question.
These include the basic, standard and enhanced checks, in rising order of depth. While the basic check can be carried out for any role, the standard and enhanced checks can only be requested for certain positions in certain industries.
Each of the checks is carried out just one time; organisations can use services that repeat the checks at regular intervals, but this is often through a third-party organisation such as Personnel Checks.
PVG Scheme
The Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme, run by Disclosure Scotland, is another kind of background check process that applies to those working in Scotland. It is especially designed for those who are working in certain fields, generally roles involving contact with vulnerable individuals, such as children.
Unlike the DBS check, the PVG scheme isn’t a one off check. It’s a scheme that workers in these fields need to sign up for. Once signed up, they will be subject to ongoing monitoring - if anything comes up on their criminal record during their employment, their employer will be duly notified.
Which One to Use
In general, it should be quite simple to figure out whether you should be using a DBS or PVG check. That being said, it’s incredibly important that you use the right one, and it’s not something to leave up to chance.
While similar, these checks are absolutely not interchangeable, and attempts to do so will likely result in regulatory and other legal infringements. It’s worth consulting with a background check expert if you have any doubts whatsoever about which kind of background check you should be using, to ensure that you’re getting it right.
Both DBS checks and the PVG scheme are used to conduct important background checks in the UK, but there are some important differences. While some employees and employers working in England, Wales & Scotland at the same time may need to use both, they cannot be used interchangeably. It’s important to understand which specific laws and regulations your business is required to abide by, to ensure that you stay on the right side of the law in the long run.
