The public sector plays a vital role in serving and supporting our communities. From local councils to government agencies, these organisations are entrusted with the responsibility of delivering essential services and ensuring the well-being of citizens. When it comes to recruiting staff for public sector roles, it is crucial to prioritise the safety and integrity of both the organisation and the individuals it serves. This is where APCS’s comprehensive background checks come in.
Basic DBS Checks
A Basic DBS Check is a criminal record check that reveals any unspent convictions or conditional cautions an applicant may have. Basic Checks are available for any position or purpose, and they often constitute a necessary element in a wider screening package.
Standard DBS Checks
Some roles in the public sector may warrant a Standard DBS Check. These checks reveal all spent and unspent convictions and cautions. By utilising APCS’s Standard DBS Check service, organisations can ensure compliance with industry regulations and maintain the public’s confidence in their recruitment processes.
Enhanced DBS Checks
One of the most critical checks for the public sector is the Enhanced DBS Check. This check is suitable for individuals working with children or vulnerable adults, which is a common scenario in many public sector roles. Positions such as social workers, healthcare professionals, and teachers all require an Enhanced DBS Check to ensure the utmost protection for the vulnerable populations they serve.
By conducting an Enhanced DBS Check through APCS, public sector organisations can access a wealth of information, including spent and unspent convictions and cautions. Additionally, if the role is eligible, barred list checks can be requested as part of the enhanced check. This comprehensive screening process helps organisations make informed hiring decisions and minimise the risk of employing individuals who may pose a threat to vulnerable individuals.
Streamlining the Recruitment Process with Digital Identity Checks
In today’s fast-paced world, efficiency is key. APCS understands the need for a streamlined recruitment process that doesn’t compromise on security. That’s where our Digital Identity Checks come in. These checks provide a fast and secure way to validate a prospective employee’s identity, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual document checks.
With Digital Identity Checks, applicants can easily upload their documents via their smartphone, and APCS’s advanced technology will retrieve and check the biometric data from most documents. This not only speeds up the verification process but also reduces the risk of forged documents. By embracing digital identity verification, public sector organisations can modernise their recruitment processes while maintaining the highest standards of security.
Ensuring Eligibility with Digital Right to Work Checks
Verifying an employee’s right to work in the UK is a legal requirement for all employers, including those in the public sector. APCS’s Digital Right to Work Checks offer a quick and secure solution to ensure compliance with UK Home Office regulations. By leveraging the power of digital identity verification, public sector organisations can streamline the employee vetting process for UK and Irish citizens.
Our innovative Digital Right to Work Checks eliminate the need for manual document checks, saving time and reducing the risk of human error. With APCS’s expertise, public sector organisations can have peace of mind knowing that they are meeting their legal obligations while efficiently onboarding new employees.
Specialised Checks for the Education Sector
Within the public sector, the education sector has its own unique set of requirements when it comes to background checks. APCS offers specialised checks tailored to the needs of educational institutions, ensuring the safety and well-being of students.
The Prohibition from Teaching Check is a crucial safeguard that confirms whether an applicant is prohibited from working within educational establishments. Local authorities, schools, and further education institutions must conduct this check before confirming an individual’s appointment. APCS’s online Prohibition from Teaching Check covers the requirements set by Ofsted and the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), providing a comprehensive and reliable service.
Additionally, APCS offers QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) Checks, which enable employers to view the Department for Education record of any teacher with Qualified Teacher Status. This check also provides access to separate lists of teachers who have been prohibited from teaching, those who may be subject to a suspension or conditional order, and those who have failed to successfully complete their induction or probation period.
For independent schools, academies, and free schools, the Section 128 Check is a mandatory requirement. This check verifies whether an individual has been barred from taking part in the management of any independent school. By utilising APCS’s Section 128 Check service, educational institutions can ensure compliance with regulations and maintain the highest standards of safeguarding.
Partnering with APCS for Comprehensive Background Checks
When it comes to recruiting staff for the public sector, there is no room for compromise. The safety and well-being of the public, as well as the integrity of the organisation, must be the top priority. By partnering with APCS for comprehensive background checks, public sector organisations can have confidence in their recruitment processes and mitigate potential risks.
APCS’s range of checks, including Standard DBS Checks, Enhanced DBS Checks, Digital Identity Checks, Digital Right to Work Checks, and specialised checks for the education sector, provide a robust framework for screening potential employees. Our expertise, combined with advanced technology and a commitment to compliance, ensures that public sector organisations can make informed hiring decisions and maintain the trust of the communities they serve.
Don’t leave the safety and reputation of your public sector organisation to chance. Choose APCS as your trusted partner for comprehensive background checks and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have taken proactive steps to safeguard your organisation and the public it serves.