Having an Enhanced DBS Check is not a requirement for sitters on Bubble, but we know that those with this check get twice as much work.

An Enhanced DBS Check is not something an individual can apply for on their own, which is why we’ve teamed up with Verifile to offer sitters on Bubble the chance to get one.

Here are some FAQs which we hope will help:

What is an Enhanced DBS Check?

An Enhanced DBS Check is the highest form of criminal record check in the UK. The check searches the Police National Computer and discloses all spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings. In addition, an Enhanced Disclosure may contain non-conviction information from local police forces. The Enhanced Check you’ll apply for via Bubble will also include a check against the ISA barred lists to confirm that you are not barred from working with children.

An Enhanced DBS Check is only available to carers in England & Wales. We hope to include Scottish PVG checks shortly.

How is it different to a Basic DBS Check?

A Basic Disclosure searches the Police National Computer and discloses all convictions which are not spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. It does not disclose spent convictions and does not include a search against the barred lists.

How will getting the Enhanced Check benefit me?

Parents on Bubble are statistically more likely to book a sitter with an Enhanced DBS Check. When you have this, it shows on your profile and helps you stand out. Also, many other employers will want to see this certificate from you when you’re applying for jobs - and within some industries, it will always be mandatory. So getting your check done is just a great way to boost your overall chances of winning more work on Bubble and elsewhere.

How much does it cost me to get an Enhanced DBS Check?

The total cost of getting your Enhanced DBS via Bubble is £59.99. This is the cost price of the check and cannot be obtained for cheaper anywhere else.

Can I get this check done on my own?

No. Individuals cannot apply for an Enhanced DBS check themselves. They can only be applied for on their behalf by employers or umbrella bodies like Verifile.

What information will I need to supply in the application process?

You will need to use three separate documents that prove your identity. Which documents you can use will differ depending on whether you are a UK/EU/EEA national or not. Typically, the documents required are valid passports, driving licences and recent bank statements. But if you don’t have all of these, then there will be a list of other documents you’ll be able to choose from, such as marriage and birth certificates, national identity cards or utility bills.

How long will it take for me to receive my certificate?

Once you have fully completed your application, checks are usually completed within 2 weeks, however, it can take longer. The length of time an individual check takes is ultimately determined by the DBS service.

How will I be notified when my check is complete?

You will be notified via email when your check is complete.

Can the process be done entirely online?

Once you’ve completed the online application process on the Verifile portal (found via your onboarding portal in the app), you will then be required to verify your identity with Bubble via an online video check. The instructions for this will be emailed to you once your application is complete.

How long does my check last for?

A DBS certificate never officially ‘runs out’ - but keeping it updated and recent is important, and many parents and other employers will expect to see DBS checks issued within the last 12-24 months maximum. Once you have your unique certificate number, you will be able to use this to sign up for the DBS online update service. For £13 per year, this keeps your DBS certificate up to date and will allow parents and employers to check it via a simple online portal. We’d strongly recommend you take up this option.

Who owns the certificate, me or Bubble?

You are the certificate owner - it is your Enhanced DBS.

Will I get a paper copy of my certificate as well?

Yes, will be able to obtain a paper copy of your certificate by selecting this option on the Verifile portal.

How will parents know that I have got this DBS check?

On your Bubble profile, you will automatically get an extra badge that says “DBS Verified”. This will also state the date of your check.

Who are Verifile?

Verifile Limited are our background screening partner of choice, and are they are there every step of the way to support you. If you need to contact them please call +44(0)1234 339 300 (Monday to Friday 08:30-17:30) or email service@verifile.co.uk. Alternatively, there is useful information on their dedicated candidate information page, https://www.verifile.co.uk/candidate.

How is my data kept safe?

Your privacy and security is our top concern. Any data that you provide to Bubble as part of your general registration and use of the app is protected in line with our Privacy Policy. Any payment details you provide us with to process your DBS application fee will be done so using our payment integration with Braintree, and PayPal. You will not be sharing any new data with Bubble as part of your application, rather it will be shared directly with Verifile on their own website, as per their own privacy policy and terms and conditions.

Verifile takes data security very seriously, proven by the fact they are Cyber Essential Plus and NSI Gold accredited to name a few. Please refer to Verifile’s Privacy Policy for more details.