Difficult times often bring out the best in people and there has been a surge in community volunteering initiatives not least during a pandemic. However, keeping people safe must always be a priority and churches should apply the same standard of safeguarding in this work.

Many roles carried out by volunteers do not need a DBS/PVG check but this should be reviewed regularly, in the event that these roles changes or when volunteers meet the “Regulated Activity” criteria.

You should:

• Take advice from DDC (our DBS checking provider) and review the information on their website relating to checks during the pandemic.
• Revisit your volunteer role descriptions and risk assess these for the potential for harm.
• Continue to apply for DBS checks on role that require this and ensure that volunteers do not start until a satisfactory clearance is received.
• Review your lone working policy and ensure protections are in place for volunteers.
• Consider using online safeguarding training for anyone undertaking a new role.

 DBS checks

Which roles are eligible for DBS checks?

Please see the General Assembly Paper T6 for information on URC roles eligible for a criminal record check. You can also see here for more information on the checking process.