DBS checks for trustees

There’s no legal requirement that all trustees must have a certain level of DBS check. The Charity Commission expects criminal record checks to be done if the position is eligible for them.

The level of check depends on both the charity’s activities and the trustee’s role.

Not making these checks can put people’s safety at risk. You might put the reputation and/or assets of the charity at risk if a trustee turns out to be unsuitable for the role.

The Charity Commission may consider this to be mismanagement or misconduct.

The facts

• An organisation can ask any trustee to have a basic check.
• If a charity works with adults at risk or children, it can apply for an enhanced DBS check for its trustees (and applicants). You might not need a check at all if you don't work with these groups.
• If a trustee is in a role that amounts to regulated activity (or they supervise or manage people who are), they’re eligible for an enhanced DBS check that includes a barred list check. Learn more

You must make sure your trustees aren’t disqualified from their role by law.

The Charity Commission has published a declaration form that must be signed by charity trustees who apply for registered charity status.

View the form and learn how to complete it on the GOV.UK website.

• Learn more about trustee disqualification
• Check the Charity Commission advice on trustee appointments.