Introduction
Criminal records checks enable the 大象传媒 to ensure that eligible people (aged 16 or over), have nothing on their criminal record that makes them unsuitable to work or volunteer in roles that have contact with children.
In England, Scotland and Wales, the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 outlines what the 大象传媒 can ask applicants about their previous cautions or convictions. Roles which are eligible for certain types of DBS check (standard, enhanced or enhanced with 'barred list') are exempt from the Act. This means that the 大象传媒 can ask some applicants for more information about their past record in order to ascertain their suitability to have contact with children.
Types of Check
Everyone who works for, or on behalf of, the 大象传媒 is eligible for a basic level criminal records check, regardless of where they reside. For some roles where staff/freelancers are in 'close contact' with children, as a provider of 'regulated activity', the 大象传媒 are able to request higher level checks. Different verification organisations are used, depending on which area of the UK (or world) the applicant resides:
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), valid for England and Wales
- Disclosure Scotland (inc. membership of the PVG Scheme), valid for Scotland
- Access NI which is valid for Northern Ireland
- International checks (dependent on country)
Third Party Checks
The 大象传媒 does not accept criminal records checks that have been requested by third parties - this is because a check undertaken by another organisation would not provide the 大象传媒 with the relevant information required to ascertain the level of risk the applicant may pose.
Freelancers are advised to subscribe to the DBS 'Update Service' (for those with enhanced checks only). This enables you to make your check 'portable' so it can be accepted by different organisations. For more information about the DBS Update Service, .
Supporting Artists
The 大象传媒 requires all walk-ons and supporting artists who are working on programmes featuring children to be in possession of AT LEAST a BASIC level Criminal Records Check from the relevant authority when engaged on programmes commissioned by the 大象传媒 and which will involve children at ANY stage of the production. This confirms that they have no unspent convictions for offences contained within the Sexual Offences Act 2003.
Basic level criminal records checks can be applied for by the individual and are usually processed quickly. More information about Basic DBS checks, including how to apply, can be found on the
You will be required to provide evidence of your criminal records check upon engagement.