Police check pickle
Question
I'm really keen to apply for a diploma course in dental hygiene. It requires a DBS check, however, and I have a reprimand for making nuisance calls. Will this mean I can't do the course?
Answer
There are some jobs where staff have direct contact with children and vulnerable adults that require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. In addition, there are certain jobs such as doctors, teachers and social workers where the rules are very strict, and this also embraces dental hygienists
A reprimand isn't a criminal conviction and therefore it's considered to be 'spent' immediately under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. What this means is that if there is a section on an application form where it asks about unspent convictions under the Act, if you've received a reprimand or caution, you don't have to say anything.
However, although reprimands aren't classified as a criminal conviction, they will show up on a DBS check, especially an enhanced DBS. Nevertheless, just because you were reprimanded in the past it does not necessarily mean you'll be denied a chance to train as a dental hygienist. What's more, much depends on the nature of the crime, so it's well worth applying and keeping an open mind. It has to be worth a go in pursuit of the career of your dreams. Normally course administrators will take into account the type of offence and how long ago it happened.
If you want more information and advice, you can contact Nacro, which is a confidential helpline for people who believe their criminal record is having an impact on their career.
Updated: 19/02/2013
Question answered by CAB
