| CCSL | CDF | DBS | |
| What is it? | A Bishop to Bishop reference letter, that follows a set template. | The opportunity to disclose details of any convictions, cautions, final warnings and reprimands which are not eligible for being filtered out in accordance with the DBS filtering rules, and will be displayed on an enhanced DBS (with/without barring list/s checks) certificate. | A criminal records and intelligence check which is required by law if undertaking certain types of activity. |
| Who is it for? | Clergy moving from a role in one diocese to a new role in another diocese | Any role that requires an Enhanced or Enhanced plus barring list/s DBS check | Basic BBS check can be done on any role. Enhanced checks and Enhanced checks plus barring lists must be carried out in accordance with legislation, see Appendix A |
| When is it done? | Before the appointment is made | As part of a recruitment process: At the same time as the job/role application is made As part of a DBS re-check process: At the same time as a DBS application is made | Clergy: During discernment, then every three years after Other roles: On appointment in a role in a new Church Body, and every three years after |
| Who is able to view it? | The sending and receiving Bishops, and both Safeguarding Officers | As limited as possible, but needs to be seen by those who need to make a decision, eg Safeguarding Officers, as well as the recruiting manager who will have the ultimate decision. | As limited as possible but needs to be seen by those who administer, make decisions or have responsibility, e.g . the DBS Administrator, HR, safeguarding, legal, and the recruiting manager. |
| Where is it kept? | In the Clergy personnel records (clergy blue file) | In Clergy blue files, employment or volunteer files | In Clergy blue files, employment or volunteer files |
| How long is it kept for? | 70 years after death | Until replaced or 70 years after death | In accordance with Government DBS Guidance: Handling of DBS certificate information - GOV.UK |
What information is contained on different levels of DBS checks?
| DBS Check Level/Information provided | Basic | Standard | Enhanced | Enhanced + Barred Lists |
| Unspent convictions | ||||
| Spent convictions (subject to filtering) | ||||
| Cautions (subject to filtering) | ||||
| Police intelligence | ||||
| Inclusion on children’s barred list | ||||
| Inclusion on adult’s barred list |