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What a DBS Adult First Check Is

Describe what a DBS Adult First check does, when it can be requested, which roles and organisations are eligible, and why it cannot be used for children’s barred list information.

Written by Ben Nicholas

  • A DBS Adult First Check is a quick search of the Adults’ Barred List.

    You can only request it when:

    • The role involves regulated activity with adults, and

    • An Enhanced check with Adults’ Barred List has been requested

    Adult First is:

    • For exceptional circumstances

    • Not a standalone check – it must be part of an Enhanced DBS application

    Not suitable for:

    • Roles involving children, or roles mixing children and adults where a children’s barred list check is needed

    • There is no fast‑track equivalent for the Children’s Barred List

    Results are usually returned within 24 hours, but can take up to 3 working days.

Previous names for this check:

  • POVA (Protection of Vulnerable Adults)

  • ISA (Independent Safeguarding Authority) check

These older terms refer to the same type of barred list search.

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