Nannies may bring written references to an interview and although the agency will vet, interview and reference check all candidates, ultimately you are responsible for checking references. You are advised to write to or telephone previous employers to check details or to discuss a written reference on the nanny. This will also allow you to judge the person giving the reference before making your decision.
References and DBS Checks
DBS Checks
DBS checks are called disclosures. When someone applies to the DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) for a disclosure the DBS checks the Police National computer and if requested the 2 government lists containing information of people who should not be allowed to work with children or vulnerable adults. The applicant must have been resident in the UK for at least 6 months. On completion of the check the original disclosure is sent to the applicant and the copy to the Agency. This information is confidential and cannot be given to employers.
At the moment in England & Wales it takes an average of 4 weeks to get results once the application has been submitted, in Scotland a little longer. We can monitor their progress online. DBS checks are only valid to the date they are produced. They also carry no absolute guarantee of accuracy.
At Abbeville Nannies we encourage all potential applicants to have a DBS check and will advise the client whether a nanny has an up to date DBS check. It is then the client's choice should they wish to employ a candidate who does not have an up to date DBS check.
For more information, go directly to the DBS website by clicking here.
