Today (28 November 2020) the long awaited changes to the rules on what is disclosed on (and removed from) standard and enhanced criminal record checks come into effect. This is something Unlock has campaigned for over seven years.
Today we’ve published updated guidance which explains the new rules. You can:
- Read this brief guide that explains the changes in more detail
- Use this infographic to find out which convictions/cautions will show up on which type of DBS check
- Read our detailed guide for more information about the filtering system

If you’re applying for a job that involves a standard or enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, cautions or convictions that would be removed (filtered) won’t be included on your standard or enhanced certificate.
It’s thought that these changes will mean around 45,000 people a year will now have a clear standard or enhanced DBS check, although we know many more people have been put off applying in the past, so we think the number that benefit from these changes will be much higher, so it’s worth finding out whether you’ll be one of them.
More information
- For practical information – We have updated our specific guidance, which is part of our wider information on criminal record checks for employment.
- Our policy work – Find out more about the impact of these changes. You can also support our call for #FairChecks.
- Questions – If you have a question about this, you can contact our helpline.
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