Safeguarding + DBS

Safeguarding

Safeguarding Children is an advisory service for NHS professionals working with children under the age of 18 and their parents and/or carers.

Any safeguarding concerns should be reported directly to the local authority safeguarding team.

If you’re concerned about the safety or wellbeing of a child, please speak to your Local Authority Safeguarding Team:

Home | Safeguarding Adults Board

Both Adult and Children Level 2 training is provided by DOCET. Click the links below to be directed to the relevant page:

• Adults Level 2   Safeguarding Adults for Optometrists Level 2 (Updated 2022)
• Children Level 2   Safeguarding Children for Optometrists (Updated 2022)

The LOCSU Website also provides more information on safeguarding here.

If a performer or contractor is unsure or has questions about staff training, policies, or competencies, they can use this generic email address: england.cneincidents@nhs.net

NHSE Safeguarding Lead; england.nursingandqualitycne@nhs.net

NHS England Regional Teams and/or Local Health Boards should regularly notify practices of up-to-date contact information for local Safeguarding and Prevent teams. If, for some reason, this is not available, up-to-date safeguarding information can be found by downloading the following app(s):

Android: NHS Safeguarding Guide – Apps on Google Play

iOS: NHS Safeguarding Guide on the App Store

Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS)

All new applicants for a GOS performers list have to have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check carried out. This was previously called an Enhanced CRB check.

GOS regulations do not require routine updating, however, section 5.11 of the NHS Standard Contract, General Conditions does require proof of clinicians holding an Enhanced DBS certificate and Primary Eyecare Services (PES) may request a copy of this certificate to ensure compliance.

The difference between a DBS and a CRB certificate is that it is transportable. It belongs to the individual and therefore it is their responsibility to ensure it is maintained when participating in community services.

If you have not had an enhanced CRB/DBS check carried out in the last three years, you must now do so to participate in locally commissioned community services.

An enhanced DBS costs around £45, but you can’t apply for an enhanced one on yourself. https://www.gov.uk/disclosure-barring-service-check/overview
You need an “umbrella body” to do this, and they charge for the ID checking and processing of information – this may mean you may have to pay £70+ per check, depending on what they charge.

Anyone working in a multiple organisation should check with their company first to see if they have a preferred supplier.

Once you have had a complete DBS check returned, you should put into onto a DBS update service. 

This service lets applicants keep their DBS certificates up to date online and allows employers to check a certificate online. You can ask for the number when you apply for your DBS check, or you can wait and register with your certificate number when you receive your DBS certificate.