Supporting Safer Sports
What level of DBS check do you need in your sport?
We help to protect and safeguard children and vulnerable adults in sport. We do this by processing DBS checks and maintaining the 2 DBS Barred Lists.
In sport, roles such as coaches, umpires, lifeguards, and physiotherapists could all be eligible for a DBS check. Generally, eligibility to apply for a Standard or Enhanced DBS check is not based on a person’s job title, but is established by looking at the activities and responsibilities carried out by each individual role.
Standard, Enhanced, and Enhanced with Barred Lists DBS checks are only suitable for certain types of sporting roles, so individuals cannot apply by themselves.
Find out more about how to make your sport safer in the video.
DBS checks in sport guidance
Whether you’re working with children or vulnerable adults in your sport, our safeguarding guidance leaflets cover eligibility for DBS checks across a variety of roles within the sports sector.
Working with children in sport leaflet is available in English and Welsh
Working with vulnerable adults in sport leaflet is available in English and Welsh
Make a barring referral
Are you concerned that a child or vulnerable adult is either being harmed or is at risk of harm in your sport? More information about whether you should make a barring referral can be found here.
Apply for a Basic DBS check
If your sporting role does not require a higher level of DBS check, then you can apply for a Basic DBS check yourself. Find out more here.
Help and support:
We’re here to help you. Get in touch to find out more about our free, bespoke workshops and seminars led by DBS’ expert Regional Outreach team.
The team has advisers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Find out more in our Help and support page.