Concerns Raised Over Lack of DBS Checks at 360 Play in Milton Keynes

A Milton Keynes resident has raised safeguarding concerns after discovering that staff at the children’s play centre 360 Play in Knowlhill are not subject to DBS checks before starting work.

The concern was brought to light after the resident’s daughter attended an interview and was later employed as a party host at the centre, along with 16 others. None of the new recruits were asked to complete a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check before beginning their roles.

DBS checks are used to verify whether individuals have criminal convictions or are barred from working with children or vulnerable people. According to government guidance, these checks are required for staff who regularly supervise, care for, or have close contact with children.

The parent, who provided evidence of correspondence with the company, said they were “shocked and appalled” to learn that no checks were being carried out.

“How can a business designed for children employ people without any form of background check?” they said. “It’s deeply concerning when staff are running parties and supervising children directly.”

After raising the matter with 360 Play’s management, the resident said they met with Chloe, the site manager, who confirmed that the company does not conduct DBS checks at any of its locations.

The manager reportedly stated that the business operates within a “grey area” where such checks are not a legal requirement, and therefore the company is not in breach of current regulations.

The resident said they were told about a previous incident at another site, Riverside Hub, where a staff member had been employed who was later found to be unsuitable to work in a children’s environment.

When asked to provide written confirmation of the company’s policy, the manager declined but said the matter had been passed to an Environmental Health Manager named Anne.

The resident said they have since reported their concerns to the local council and are urging other parents to exercise caution.

“I won’t be taking my grandson there again until I’m confident proper safeguarding measures are in place,” they added.

360 Play has been approached for comment.