Background checks can be an essential part of any hiring process, but they are crucial when hiring a person to work with children. List 99 was started by the Home Office Consultancy Service in 1955. A similar list was also created in 1999, known as the Protection of Children Act.

In 2009, List 99 and other lists like it were replaced by the Children’s Barred List, which was created as part of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and managed by the Independent Safeguarding Authority, which would merge with the Criminal Record Bureau in 2012 and be known as the Disclosure and Barring Service.

What is The Children’s Barred List?

The Children’s Barred List is a check carried out by the DBS that allows employers to make safer hiring decisions regarding children and vulnerable adults. The list contains details of those not permitted to work with vulnerable people, ensuring that a business is safeguarding its clients at all times.

What Crimes Lead to Inclusion on The Children’s Barred List?

There is no one criminal offence that leads to inclusion on The Children’s Barred List, but it often means that a serious crime has been committed, often of a sexual or violent nature. Although some DBS checks will omit some minor offences, offences involving safeguarding and sexual offences will always be shown.

Are Barred Lists Included with a DBS Check?

Although there are several types of DBS checks, only an Enhanced DBS Check will include Barred Lists and other cautions and convictions. If someone is registered on a Barred List, it will be documentation on the DBS certificate.

Employers can only request an Enhanced DBS Check if the role requires the person to work with or near children and can only be carried out by employers.

In addition to aiding those wanting to check the Children’s Barred List, online verification can be used to authenticate over 4000 documents from the United Kingdom and abroad.

How Long Does an Enhanced DBS Check Take?

When carrying out an enhanced DBS check, it normally takes around 14 days, but there can be instances when it takes longer. For example, there can be a delay if several police forces are involved or if incorrect details have been given at the outset.

Further Measures That Can Be Taken to Ensure Vulnerable People Remain Safe

Some companies may carry out their own background checks, whereas others may ask potential candidates to perform an Enhanced DBS Check. When receiving documentation regarding background checks, it must be checked for authenticity.

Fortunately, those checking the Children’s Barred List can verify valid documents using a professional verification service. Simply upload the document, and a series of checks will be carried out to ensure it is genuine.

Although employers need to request an Enhanced DBS Check, those applying for positions will need to supply documentation like a passport, driving licence in addition to documentation proving their address,

All these documents and more can be verified online within one minute using complex algorithms that can highlight any irregularities straight away.