Pharmacy DBS Checks: What you need to know for the Pharmacy Quality Scheme 2025/26
- willhoggarth
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
As part of the evolving commitment to patient safety, the Pharmacy Quality Scheme (PQS) 2025/26 introduces a new requirement that pharmacy professionals must act on by 31st March 2026.
Here’s what you need to know, and how to ensure your pharmacy is compliant without the hassle.
The New PQS Requirement
The PQS for 2025/26 mandates that:
All pharmacists and pharmacy technicians (registered pharmacy professionals) working in the pharmacy on the declaration date must have an Enhanced DBS check dated within the last three years — between 1st April 2023 and 31st March 2026.
This requirement is tied to the PQS declaration and is a key part of promoting safer clinical service delivery across the sector.
Why This Change?
This update aligns the frequency of DBS checks for pharmacy professionals with other NHS healthcare professionals.
It’s a step towards standardising safety protocols and preparing for an anticipated Terms of Service update, which is expected to formalise regular enhanced DBS checks as a standard requirement for all pharmacy owners.
What Is an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is the highest level of criminal background check available in the UK. It reveals:
Unspent and spent convictions
Cautions, warnings, and reprimands
Information held by local police that’s considered relevant to the role
Checks against the barred lists, if applicable — such as for those working with vulnerable adults or children
For pharmacy professionals, this level of scrutiny is essential for roles that involve access to patient records, medication, and potentially vulnerable individuals.
How to Run an Enhanced DBS Check
Running an Enhanced DBS check can seem daunting — but it doesn’t have to be. Here's a simplified step-by-step:
Choose a DBS provider (like Chexperts) that can process Enhanced DBS checks.
Provide Individuals details and payment
The provider will collect what they need from the individual
The provider will submit the check to the DBS service.
The DBS conducts the check and issues the certificate to the applicant.
Employers may ask to see the certificate but cannot keep it. If you want to keep results up to date, professionals can also join the DBS Update Service.
Only Have a Few Checks to Run?
If you’re running a small pharmacy or only need a handful of checks, there’s no need to set up a lengthy account or onboarding process.
✅ Chexperts offers a fast, online purchase option — perfect for ordering one or two Enhanced DBS checks without admin.
Stay Ahead — Act Early
Waiting until March 2026 is a risky strategy. With thousands of pharmacy professionals needing new DBS checks before the deadline, delays and backlogs are likely.
Avoid the rush. Start your DBS checks today and stay one step ahead of the compliance curve.
Need help or have questions?
The Chexperts team is here to support you with friendly, fast guidance — whether you're managing one pharmacy or a whole chain.
0203 307 4380
