DBS checks for apprenticeships: what you need to know

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Your DBS check guide for learners

As a learner starting a pharmacy apprenticeship, a Level 2 Adult Care Worker apprenticeship, or another healthcare-related role, you may be asked to complete a DBS check. This is a standard part of working in environments where you may be supporting vulnerable people.

A DBS check helps employers make safe recruitment decisions by checking whether you have any criminal records that may affect your suitability for the role.

Join tend as we take you through the fundamental information needed to understand DBS check, what they mean, and how important they are to care professionals.

What does DBS stand for?

DBS stands for Disclosure and Barring Service. It’s a UK government service that conducts criminal record checks to help employers assess whether someone is suitable to work in certain roles.

Visit Gov.uk for a full range of official information.

Why is a DBS check required?

DBS checks are required for many pharmacy, healthcare, health and social care, childcare, and education roles, because you may be working with:

• Children
• Vulnerable adults
• Patients or service users

For pharmacy and adult care apprenticeships, a DBS check is an important part of the enrolment process. Learners may be required to provide evidence of their DBS check before starting the programme.

The check helps ensure that everyone in these settings is safe and appropriately supported.

What does a DBS check involve?

A DBS check will look at:

• Criminal records
• Cautions, warnings, and reprimands (if applicable)
• Whether you are barred from working with certain groups (like children or vulnerable adults)

The level of check required will depend on your role and sector. For pharmacy and adult care apprenticeships, this will usually be an Enhanced DBS check.

How do I apply for a DBS check?

In most cases, your employer will arrange your DBS check as part of your onboarding process, and will guide you through each step.

You may be asked to:

• Provide identification documents
• Complete an application form
• Confirm your personal details

For pharmacy and adult care apprenticeships, evidence that your DBS process has started may need to be uploaded during enrolment, with the completed DBS check provided shortly after.

There is more in-depth information on this on the Gov.uk website.

Will I need to apply for my DBS check myself?

No. In most cases, your employer will handle the application and support you through the process. They will let you know what is required and help you complete the relevant checks.

How long does a DBS check take?

DBS checks can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on:

• The type of check required
• How quickly your details are processed
• Whether any further checks are needed

Your employer will usually keep you updated throughout the process.

Do I need a DBS check to start my apprenticeship?

For pharmacy and adult care apprenticeships, you will usually need to begin the DBS process before enrolment can be completed.

In some cases, you can begin your apprenticeship while your DBS check is being processed. However, you may need a clear DBS check before working directly with children or vulnerable adults.

Both your employer and the tend Team will advise you based on your specific role.

What if something appears on my DBS check?

Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent you from starting an apprenticeship. Each case is assessed individually, taking into account:

• The nature of the role
• The type of offence
• How long ago in occurred
• Your overall suitability

All information is handled confidentially by your employer.

Support and next steps

Your employer will usually manage the DBS process, but if you need additional guidance, you can learn more about employer-led DBS checks on the Gov.uk website.

You can also read our Pharmacy Entry Requirements article for mor information about the enrolment process, health declarations, and pharmacy apprenticeship requirements.

If you’re completing the Level 2 Adult Care Worker apprenticeship, your employer and Development Coach will also support you through the DBS and onboarding process.

For more guidance on DBS checks or your apprenticeship journey, reach out to the tend team today. Call 01753 596 004 or hit the button below.