Why I Believe County Councillors Should Be DBS Checked

In my view, one of the most basic yet essential responsibilities we have when serving the public is making sure that people feel safe and are safe when interacting with their elected representatives.

That’s why I firmly believe every County Councillor should be DBS checked. Not because we should assume the worst of anyone but because the public has the right to know that the people representing them have been properly vetted, just like anyone else in a position of trust.

Let’s be honest: if you want to work with children, support vulnerable adults, or even volunteer in a school, you need a DBS check. So why should we make exceptions for those who vote on children’s services, meet one-on-one with vulnerable residents, or make decisions that impact the most at-risk people in our communities?

It doesn’t make sense, and frankly, I think it undermines public trust.

A DBS check isn’t about shaming people or putting barriers in the way of democracy. It’s about setting a standard. It’s about saying: we take safeguarding seriously. It’s a way of showing the community that we’re willing to hold ourselves to the same level of accountability we expect from others.

When someone opens their door to a County Councillor, invites them into their school, or shares something personal in confidence, they deserve to feel confident that that person has passed the same basic checks any responsible organisation would require.

As councillors, we often talk about transparency, integrity, and putting residents first. For me, this is a simple, practical way to do just that.

So yes I believe it’s time for all County Councillors to be DBS checked.

Not because we have anything to hide, but because we have everything to prove.

Sign my petition to demand mandatory checks: https://forms.gle/YCB3fK13FJxDFYyy8