{"id":2518,"date":"2026-10-17T09:02:23","date_gmt":"2026-10-17T06:02:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rafidineducation.com\/dbs-check-care-workers-guide\/"},"modified":"2026-10-17T09:02:23","modified_gmt":"2026-10-17T06:02:23","slug":"dbs-check-care-workers-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rafidineducation.com\/en\/dbs-check-care-workers-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get a DBS Check for Care Work: Levels, Costs and the Update Service (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you are starting a job in adult social care, you will almost certainly be asked for a DBS check before your first shift. Knowing how to get a DBS check<\/strong> for care work \u2014 and what each level actually shows \u2014 saves you weeks of waiting and a lot of uncertainty between accepting an offer and starting the role.<\/p>\n

This guide explains the three levels of check, the new DBS fees that came in on 5 October 2026, how the application works, why the Update Service is worth it for care workers, and the small mistakes that delay certificates. Whether you are new to care or moving to a new employer, you will know exactly what to expect.<\/p>\n

What is a DBS check?<\/h2>\n

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) issues criminal record certificates in England and Wales. Employers use them to make safer recruitment decisions for roles working with children and adults at risk. It is a core part of safeguarding, alongside the training every carer completes as part of mandatory training in care<\/a>.<\/p>\n

A certificate reflects your record on the day it was issued. It has no official expiry date, but many employers ask for a fresh one after around a year, or when you change jobs, unless you are signed up to the Update Service.<\/p>\n

Basic, standard and enhanced: which one do care workers need?<\/h2>\n