1 Safeguarding for Tutors – Why Having a DBS Certificate Isn’t Enough
Many people think that having a DBS certificate is all you need to keep students safe, but that’s just the beginning. Safeguarding is a multi-layered responsibility. It’s about much more than a simple check.
Let’s delve into the essentials of safeguarding and why a DBS certificate is only the starting point.
2 What’s a DBS Check?
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a background check. It’s used to make sure someone is suitable to work with children or vulnerable adults. There are different types of DBS checks, each revealing specific details:
- Basic DBS Check: Shows any unspent convictions or cautions.
- Standard DBS Check: Includes everything in the basic check, plus spent convictions and warnings.
- Enhanced DBS Check: Adds extra information from the police.
- Enhanced DBS Check with Barred Lists: Shows if someone is banned from working with children or vulnerable adults.
A DBS check is an important step, but it’s not everything. Let’s explore why.
3 Why Isn’t a DBS Enough?
Even if someone has a DBS certificate, it doesn’t mean safeguarding stops there. Here are three reasons why:
(1) Not All Tutors Have a DBS Certificate
Independent tutors (those who work for themselves) aren’t required by law to have a DBS check. While tutoring agencies and other employers require DBS certificates, self-employed tutors don’t have to get one. This means that not every tutor has been checked, even though many choose to get one to reassure parents.
(2) Getting a DBS Can Be Tricky
If you’re a self-employed tutor, getting a DBS can be hard. You can apply for a Basic DBS check yourself. If you need a a higher-level check (like Enhanced DBS), you need to go through an agency or organisation. This creates a problem: tutors want to prove they’re safe and professional, but it’s not always easy to get the checks they need.
(3) A DBS Is a Moment in Time
Think of a DBS certificate as a “moment in time.” It only shows the person’s record at the time of the check and doesn’t update automatically. A tutor with a clear record today may face allegations or convictions tomorrow. Their certificate won’t show this unless they renew it.
There’s an option to use the DBS Update Service, which keeps the information current and allows people to check for updates. However, this service isn’t mandatory, and not everyone uses it.
4 What Else Do Tutors Need for Safeguarding?
A strong safeguarding approach involves more than just a DBS certificate. Tutors must actively create safe, secure environments for their students. Here’s what else tutors should do:
(1) Set Policies and Procedures
Every tutor should have a plan for how they’ll handle safeguarding issues. This includes a written Safeguarding Policy that explains what they’ll do if they suspect a problem. It shows professionalism and a genuine commitment to safety.
(2) Safeguarding Training
Safeguarding training is vital. It helps tutors to:
- Stay legally compliant.
- Recognise signs of abuse or neglect.
- Understand their responsibilities and their role in keeping students safe.
- Be able to respond effectively to concerns.
(3) Tutors Code of Conduct
A written code of conduct sets clear rules for how tutoring should work, like where and how sessions happen. This helps set boundaries, reduce risks and keeps things professional.
(4) Work with Others
It’s helpful to have someone to check your work and offer advice. Independent tutors can team up with other tutors to review each other’s safeguarding practices and handle complaints fairly.
(5) Safeguarding – Encourage Open Communication
Students should feel comfortable speaking up if something doesn’t feel right. Tutors need to create an environment where students feel safe and supported. They should also make sure that parents feel comfortable sharing concerns or feedback.
5 Final Thoughts
A DBS certificate is important—it shows that a tutor has been checked—but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Real safeguarding means being proactive and creating a safe space for everyone involved. If you’re a tutor, make sure you go beyond the DBS to show professionalism and commitment to safety.
Safeguarding should be as simple as ABC.
Need help writing a safeguarding policy and/or Code of Conduct? Check out our Safeguarding Policy. It’s a great way to make safeguarding a priority in your tutoring journey!