If you’ve ever accepted a police caution, even for something minor, there’s a good chance it’s crossed your mind later – maybe just before starting a new job: Is this going to come up on a DBS check?
It’s a fair question, and like most things involving paperwork and background checks, the answer isn’t completely straightforward.
First things first: what’s a caution?
It’s not a conviction. That’s important. A caution is more like a formal warning from the police. You admit to the offence, and in return, you avoid going to court.
There are two types:
- A simple caution, which is just that – a warning
- A conditional caution, which comes with a few strings attached (like agreeing to attend a course or write a letter of apology)
They’re usually used for minor offences. Low-level theft, public disturbances, that sort of thing. But just because they’re “minor” doesn’t mean they disappear without a trace.
So, does a DBS check show it?
It depends on the type of DBS check being run. Not all checks are created equal.
Basic DBS check:
This only shows unspent convictions and conditional cautions. The good news? Simple and severe conditions cautions won’t show up. So if it’s a Basic check, your caution might not appear.
Standard DBS check:
This goes deeper. It includes spent and unspent convictions and cautions, unless they’ve been filtered. So your caution is more likely to show up here.
Enhanced DBS check:
This includes everything a Standard check covers, plus anything else the police feel is relevant.
Even if a caution’s filtered, other details might still appear if the police think they relate to the job, particularly roles involving children or vulnerable adults.
As an employer, it’s important to know what level of check you should be using. Companies like Personnel Checks can be used to help navigate the background check landscape, increasing your chances of remaining compliant with any relevant industry regulations.
What is filtering?
Filtering is the process of hiding certain old or minor offences from DBS results. Here’s when a caution might be filtered out:
- It’s more than 6 years old (or 2 years if you were under 18 at the time it was given)
- It wasn’t for a serious offence, like sexual offences, violence, or safeguarding issues (although these issues typically won’t result in a caution)
- If your caution meets all that, it may not show up – although this may also depend on the kind of check being used.
But if it was for something slightly more serious or relatively recent? There’s a good chance it will appear, especially on more in-depth background checks.
So yes – DBS checks can show cautions, but not always. It depends on the check level, the nature of the offence, and how long ago it happened.
If you’re unsure what might come up, you can always request a Basic DBS check on yourself first. Better to find out early than be caught off guard later, especially if a job offer’s on the line.
