DBS Checks & Safer Recruitment Guidance for Care Providers
Ensure your hiring process is safe, compliant, and inspection-ready — from first check to final file.
CQC and Ofsted expect every provider to implement safe recruitment practices that protect vulnerable people. At PolicyBase, we help you meet these expectations with clear, step-by-step guidance and practical tools to build a recruitment system that satisfies inspectors — and keeps your service safe from day one.
From DBS checks and reference collection to gap assessments and risk-based decisions, we give you the knowledge and templates to get it right.
What’s Included in This Service:
- A complete safer recruitment guide tailored to CQC and Ofsted providers
- Guidance on completing enhanced DBS checks for all relevant roles
- Reference templates and safer recruitment forms
- Sample risk assessment for staff with gaps or concerns
- Tips to pass the “well-led” inspection key line of enquiry
- Links to approved DBS umbrella bodies for processing
Make safer recruitment a strength — not a risk.
Get clear, compliant guidance and start building a safer team today.
Poor recruitment practice is a common reason for “Requires Improvement” outcomes — especially under the well-led and safe domains. Our service ensures your processes are watertight and that you can evidence every key check in staff files.
We support you whether you’re recruiting care staff, team leaders, responsible individuals, or even volunteers.
- New providers registering with CQC or Ofsted
- Existing providers hiring new team members
- Independent carers hiring assistants
- Childminders needing to meet EYFS requirements
- Providers undergoing inspection or file audits
- Full staff file setup with editable Word templates
- Fit Person Interview Prep (for leaders and registered managers)
- Recruitment Ads + Job Board Posting via Find-Carers
FAQ – DBS Checks & Safer Recruitment
Yes. Anyone working directly with service users must have an enhanced DBS check, and managers must be checked as well. Support staff may also require one depending on their access.
No, but we connect you with trusted umbrella bodies where you can submit DBS applications. We also guide you on how to interpret results and maintain compliance.
Our guidance includes risk assessment templates and advice on how to evidence decision-making around hiring. Not all results are disqualifying — the key is proper documentation.
It includes gathering references, verifying work history, checking qualifications, validating Right to Work status, and keeping auditable staff records.
Yes — it’s tailored to both frameworks and has been used successfully by children’s homes, childminders, domiciliary care agencies, and supported living services.
“PolicyBase took care of the entire process. We got registered and passed our inspection first time.”
Joy SJ. Davis, Homecare Providerteel
Designer
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So Much to offer you
All-in-One Compliance
We combine registration, documentation, inspection prep, insurance, and training — all in one place.
Part of The Brandso Network
Work with an integrated family of expert teams across recruitment, training, branding, and business support.
Tailored To The Care Sector
Everything we offer is built specifically for care providers — from childminders to supported living agencies.