DBS checks and the Update Service
Criminal record checks for phlebotomists and how the DBS Update Service works.
Checks by nation
In England and Wales, checks are issued by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Scotland uses the PVG scheme run by Disclosure Scotland, and Northern Ireland uses AccessNI.
Enhanced DBS checks
Roles with patient contact usually need an enhanced check. Enhanced checks are applied for through a registered organisation, such as an employer or an umbrella body, not by the individual.
The Update Service
A subscription that lets an employer check online, with your consent, whether your DBS certificate is still current. There is a deadline for joining after a certificate is issued. The current fee and rules are on GOV.UK.
Lola Dispatch
Lola staff review each phlebotomist’s DBS certificate before approval, track its expiry date, send reminders before it expires, and suspend the phlebotomist if it lapses.
General information only, not legal advice. Rules differ between the UK nations and change over time; check official guidance or take advice for your situation.
Related topics
Infection prevention and control
Hand hygiene, PPE, skin preparation and cleaning equipment in phlebotomy.
Sharps
Using, containing and disposing of sharps safely.
Temperature control for samples
Keeping blood samples within the laboratory’s temperature and time requirements.
Consent
Valid consent for blood collection, and what to do when a patient may lack capacity.
Lola Dispatch is invitation-only
Lola Dispatch offers mobile blood draw jobs to approved phlebotomists. We add phlebotomists by invitation.
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