We've all been there – pumped about a new job prospect to get hit with the question: "Should workers cover the cost of DBS checks?" It's a touchy subject that's causing arguments in workplaces all over the UK. As someone who's made their way through the job market, I've seen firsthand how these expenses can affect our bank accounts and our career paths. But it goes beyond just the cash; it's about fairness, access to employment, and keeping our communities safe.

In this opinion piece, we'll explore DBS checks and vaccinations looking at who pays and why it's important. We'll examine what happens when workers have to pay, and how this impacts job hunters and companies. By the end, you'll understand this tricky issue better and might even have some thoughts on how to deal with it at work. Let's begin our look into this key part of today's job scene.

DBS checks, or Disclosure and Barring Service checks, play a key role in hiring for many industries. These checks allow employers to make safer decisions when bringing on new staff by showing a person's criminal record. You'll find four kinds of DBS checks: Basic, Standard, Enhanced, and Enhanced with Barred List(s). Each one gives different amounts of info ranging from unspent convictions to complete criminal history and whether someone's on a barred list.

Companies often ask themselves if they should foot the bill for DBS checks or if workers should pay for them. The price changes based on the check type, with Basic ones costing £23 and Enhanced ones £40. Some businesses pay these fees, while others ask staff to cover them, which might put off potential hires.

Shots have also become a big issue for jobs in healthcare. Some workplaces now tell staff to get COVID-19 vaccines, which brings up questions about who should pay for these medical treatments.

The issue of who pays for DBS checks has started arguments in many workplaces. A lot of employers cover the cost, but they don't have to by law. This means some job hunters end up paying for it themselves, which can make it hard to get a job. The argument gets even trickier when we think about vaccines in healthcare. Some employers now want their staff to get the COVID-19 vaccine, which makes people wonder who should pay for it. It's tough to find the right balance between keeping workplaces safe and not putting too much money pressure on workers. I've looked for jobs myself so I know how these costs can hit our wallets and affect the jobs we go for.

When workers have to cover the cost of DBS checks, it has a major influence on their job options and money situation. Lots of employees are those in low-wage positions already find it tough to pay their bills. Shelling out for these checks can strain their budgets. It's not just about cash though. Some folks might not even try for jobs if they know they'll need to pay for the check. This creates a roadblock to getting work for people who are already short on money.

The price of DBS checks isn't set in stone, and some employers tack on extra charges above the actual cost. This lack of consistency can result in workers getting treated unfairly, as some end up paying more than others for the same kind of check. It's hard on zero-hours staff and people picking up second jobs, who often need to shell out for multiple checks.
The argument over who should pay for DBS checks and vaccinations has a big effect on both companies and workers. These costs can hit job hunters hard maybe even stopping them from getting work or changing what jobs they go for. The money side of things for

people in low-paying jobs or needing lots of checks, can be a real problem. This whole thing needs some careful thinking to keep workplaces safe while also being fair to workers.
Looking ahead, we need to think about how these policies affect jobs and people's lives overall. Companies should consider if covering these costs is worth it, as they might lose good workers who can't afford the upfront costs. We should ask bosses if it's fair to try and get this money back from workers when living costs, life, and work are already tough. In the end, finding a way to keep things safe and fair will be essential to create a workplace where everyone feels included and has equal chances.

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