Physiotherapists and Physiotherapy Practices

DBS checks for Physiotherapists

Streamline your DBS checking process today with DDC today. Physiotherapists and staff at physiotherapy practices are required to have a DBS check as part of their pre-employment checking process as they work closely with often vulnerable members of the public. Our online system is designed to support you and your practice’s specific needs and our expert customer service team is always on hand to guide you and your applicants each step of the way.

Enquire now to book a trial of our system and discover the wide range of optional extra services we can provide to reduce the resource needed by your team.

For any applicant looking to request a check through the Physio First Vetting and Barring Scheme, please visit the ‘Physio First Application Portal’.

Who needs a DBS Check?

In general the employer should decide which job roles need a check and at what level. If your organisation is working along side a third party provider such as a NHS Trust or Healthcare Provider and they have asked you to obtain a check, they can normally advise the level of check they require you to obtain. Some of the more common roles that are checked include:

More than just DBS checks – Reference checks for physiotherapists and practice staff

When hiring new staff in your practice, it is important to take the right steps when it comes to background screening. Professional and independently verified reference checks can help you ensure you’re making the best hiring decisions possible, every time.

Never chase a referee again! Our reference checking service can save you time, money and help you protect your reputation. Find out how we can help you manage and obtain references and verify employment history here.

How to obtain DBS checks on your staff?

If your organisation will not be processing more than 100 checks per year then you will need to Register your organisation with an Umbrella Body such as DDC Ltd. We can open an account for you quickly, there is no registration fee or set-up costs and you could be processing checks today! Our eBulk systems allow the fast and efficient submission of applications to the DBS.

What Level of Check should my staff have?

Unfortunately there is no exhaustive list which will tell you exactly what level to request based upon the job title of the employee. Generally those providing direct healthcare to children and/or adults are eligible for the Enhanced Level check, with a check of the relevant barring list(s). The decision to check staff rests with the employer and any sector specific guidance you have been provided. The key to making this decision will be to evaluate the role in two aspects:

1. What level of Disclosure can you request? – The first aspect is to determine the level of Disclosure you are legally entitled to request upon the employee. Consider the setting where they will work and the potential for contact with vulnerable adults and U18s. To help with this process you can view the current DBS guide to eligibility. Our webpages relating to Regulated Activity will help with eligibility for barred list checks.
2. What is the appropriate level of check for the job being undertaken? – The second task would be to run a risk assessment on the job role on offer, taking into account aspects such as; the level of supervision, the control of access (e.g. restricted areas) , the type of contact with children/vulnerable adults (e.g. incidental) and any other safeguarding policies put in place.

Once you have assessed the role, you can determine the level of Disclosure to be obtained for your staff. We strongly recommend that you record this Risk Assessment process to ensure best practice. If you have received any external guidance, such as from a healthcare provider, it is also advisable to retain this information for your records.

DBS checks for Physiotherapists and  physiotherapy practices – Register for free today 

Safe, secure and reliable DBS checks for Physiotherapists working in Physiotherapy Practices or on a NHS/Hospital site. If you have any general questions you may wish to try our DBS FAQ section or contact us directly.

Self-employed Physiotherapist obtaining DBS checks

As a self-employed physiotherapist, you cannot request a DBS check upon yourself. This is because you need an authoritative body or ’employer’ to endorse you should there be inappropriate content present on your Certificate. Even though you are self-employed, the Physiotherapy Practice in which you work can request a check upon you. You may also be paying for the check yourself which is fine. The Physiotherapy Practice should follow the guidance above and register. Many membership organisations exist who can help carry out the check through an Umbrella Body like DDC. Just ask them or put them in contact with us.

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