Guidance

Get a background check if you live or work with a childminder

This explains how to get the check you need to have if you are aged 16 or over and you live or work in a childminder's home.

Applies to England

Who needs to have a background check

You will have to get a criminal record check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) if you live or work in a childminder’s home and you are 16 or older.

This includes partners, family members, assistants, cleaners and anyone else at the property.

The checks are to make sure the home is safe for children.

Applying for the DBS check

You can apply for a check on the Ofsted DBS Application website.

The childminder can claim this as a business expense.

It can take about 6 weeks to get your certificate.

What happens next

You should give the childminder the 12-digit number on your certificate.

The childminder will need to enter this when they register with Ofsted.

Other background checks

Ofsted will check if you are known to social services at your local council. We may also carry out more checks with other government agencies.

Speak to the childminder or contact Ofsted if you have any concerns.

How to contact Ofsted

Email: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk
Phone: 0300 123 1231

Updates to this page

Published 27 March 2020

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