How do I know if a club or activity has done the right DBS checks?

Ask the organisation directly which level of DBS check staff and volunteers in regular contact with children have completed. Roles that meet the regulated-activity definition require an enhanced DBS check with a barred-list check. Reputable schools, sports clubs, and faith settings will expect this question and should be able to explain their safer-recruitment process.

What does it mean if someone is barred from regulated activity?

A person on the DBS children's barred list must not work in regulated activity with children. It is a criminal offence to knowingly employ a barred person in such a role, or for a barred person to apply for it. Settings have a legal duty to refer to the DBS anyone removed for harming or risking harm to a child.

Law and policy

Regulated activity

Defined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006. Roles involving regular contact with children where an enhanced DBS check with barred-list information is required.

Regulated activity is work involving regular contact with children, defined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, for which an enhanced DBS check including barred-list information is legally required.

In plain English

Defined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006. Roles involving regular contact with children where an enhanced DBS check with barred-list information is required.

Why it matters

It is a criminal offence to employ a barred person in regulated activity with children, or to apply for such work when barred. Schools, sports clubs, and faith settings must check the right level. Parents can ask which level was used.

Sources

Regulated activity with children— GOV.UK

Frequently Asked Questions

This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-17

← Back to glossary