There can be many reasons why someone wants to verify the background of an individual, especially regarding sexual offences. However, the checks made regarding sexual offences will vary depending on the situation. The following is an overview of the options available and the conditions in which they apply.
Carrying Out a Personal Check
Although there are registers in other parts of the world, the United Kingdom does not have a list of offenders available to the public. However, there are situations when checks can be made to see if someone has committed a sexual offence.
For a check to be carried out, the person must have direct contact with the child. This may be over the telephone, online or in a household. To request a check, a person can call 101 or visit a police station. The person making the request will be asked for identification and the reason for the review.
Some websites claim to hold details of those who have completed sexual offences, but these are not Government regulated. As such, there is no way of knowing whether the list is genuine or up to date.
People wanting to check if someone has been the conviction of a crime sexual in nature should always use official means, as this is the only way of ensuring the information is correct.
Who Can Carry Out a Personal Check?
A personal check can be carried out by parents, carers and those looking after children. Employers and organisations will need a different check for professional positions, like teachers, to check for sexual offences and other convictions.
Checks Employers Need to Carry Regarding Sexual Offences
Employers can carry out several checks depending on the job role. When a person is working with children or vulnerable adults, they will need to complete an Enhanced DBS Check.
Carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service, an Enhanced DBS check will list all convictions and advise whether the person is on the Adult Barred List or Children Barred List.
Only employers can carry out an Enhanced DBS check and trying to acquire one using other means is illegal.
Employers Must Verify Documents
Although there are advanced methods of creating fraudulent documents, technology is not surpassing the fraudsters, and online document verification is becoming an essential tool when confirming the identity and background of prospective employers.
Documents can be verified online, so employers are confident that the person applying for a position is legitimate.
How Long Does Someone Remain on the Barred List?
In some instances, crimes where no prison time has been served will be filtered from DBS Checks over time, but this is not the case for sexual-related crimes. A Barred List Check will not be carried out using a standard DBS check, which is why an Enhanced DBS Check is needed.
The only time the DBS will amend a barred list is following an appeal where the entry is incorrect. However, those convicted of crimes of a sexual nature will always appear on Barred Lists.