The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has released a new podcast video designed to support faith organisations in understanding and confidently applying the legal duty to refer.
As part of DBS’ national faith safeguarding campaign, the podcast brings together Kelly Matthews, Southeast Regional Outreach Adviser at DBS, and Louise Whitehead, Head of Safeguarding at the Diocese of Oxford, for an open conversation about what the duty to refer looks like in practice within faith settings.
The duty to refer requires organisations to notify DBS when they remove a person from regulated activity because they have harmed, or may pose a risk of harm to, a child or vulnerable adult. The requirement applies across all sectors, including faith organisations.
Sharing experiences to support good safeguarding practice
During the discussion, Louise reflects on her experience of considering and submitting DBS referrals, including how she assessed concerns, navigated the decision-making process, and the support she received from DBS throughout.
Louise said
What we have found really useful is to make that call to your Regional [Outreach Adviser] to say, ‘look we’ve got this situation, I’m not sure about whether I should be doing a DBS referral or not, what is your advice on that’. That has been really helpful because it can be just intimidating.
Kelly provides an overview of what the legal duty to refer involves, common challenges that organisations face, and how DBS can assist safeguarding leads before, during, and after submitting a referral.
Kelly said
At the end of the day, I, and my Outreach team colleagues, we want to work with organisations to better safeguard those vulnerable groups by helping those employers and recruiting organisations make those safe recruitment and ongoing employment decisions.”
A focus on confidence, clarity, and collaboration
The podcast video highlights the importance of partnership working between DBS and faith organisations, particularly around early engagement and open communication.
The conversation aims to empower safeguarding leaders, volunteers and practitioners across the faith sector to respond decisively and compassionately when concerns arise, recognising that referrals are a protective measure designed to keep people safe.
Access the episode
The podcast is available as part of DBS’ ongoing work to strengthen safeguarding awareness and improve understanding of key responsibilities within the faith sector.
Watch, and listen, to the podcast here
Faith in Safeguarding – In Conversation with Kelly Matthews and Louise Whitehead