Self Employed DBS Checks Now Allowed: What Changed and How to Apply for a Self DBS
If you are self-employed and work with children or vulnerable adults, you have probably been asked to provide a higher level DBS check. For years, many people hit a frustrating roadblock because they could not access the correct check without an organisation applying for them.
That has now changed.
This update makes it easier to apply for the right level of Self Employed DBS check, and it also makes the Self DBS process clearer for personal employees and workers hired directly.
What has changed for Self Employed DBS checks?
The DBS guidance confirms that self-employed people and personal employees can now apply for Enhanced DBS checks, and Enhanced DBS with Barred List(s) checks, through an Umbrella Body route where the role is eligible.
Previously, most self-employed applicants were limited to Basic checks, even when safeguarding standards required more. Now, eligible workers can use the proper route for a Self Employed DBS application, meaning a correct Self DBS check is easier to access.
What is now being allowed?
Eligible self-employed workers can now apply for:
- Enhanced Self Employed DBS checks
- Enhanced Self DBS checks with Children’s Barred List
- Enhanced Self DBS checks with Adults’ Barred List
This is a major improvement for anyone who needs a compliant Self DBS certificate for safeguarding, contracts, or client reassurance.
How to apply for a Self Employed DBS check
To apply for a Self Employed DBS check correctly, you must:
- Confirm your role is eligible
- Select the right workforce and check type
- Apply through an Umbrella Body route
- Complete identity verification requirements
- Submit your Self DBS application and wait for processing
If you want a faster and clearer process, our sister company can help you apply through the correct route at self-employed-dbs.co.uk.
Self Employed DBS and Self DBS FAQ
Below are the most common questions we hear from people applying for a Self Employed DBS check or trying to understand the Self DBS process.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can self-employed people apply for an Enhanced DBS now? | Yes. The updated guidance confirms eligible self-employed people can access Enhanced checks through an Umbrella Body route. This is the main improvement to the Self Employed DBS process and makes a compliant Self DBS application possible for more workers. |
| What is the difference between Self Employed DBS and Self DBS? | A Self Employed DBS check refers to a DBS check for someone working independently, rather than being employed by a company. A Self DBS check usually refers to the same thing in simpler language, where the individual is arranging their own DBS application. |
| Can I choose Enhanced DBS even if my role is not eligible? | No. The change improves access, but it does not change eligibility. Your Self Employed DBS application must match an eligible role, and your Self DBS check level must be correct for what you actually do. |
| Do personal assistants and personal employees qualify? | Many do, depending on the work and the level of contact with children or vulnerable adults. This update is important for personal employees because it makes the Self Employed DBS route clearer, and the Self DBS process easier to follow for direct hires. |
| Do I need a barred list check? | Only if your work is eligible and involves regulated activity. Some roles require a barred list, while others do not. A Self Employed DBS application must be completed accurately, and a Self DBS check must be selected correctly to avoid delays. |
| Can my client apply for me instead? | Yes, if your client is an organisation and is able to submit DBS checks. However, many self-employed workers prefer using the new Self Employed DBS route, as it keeps the process in their control and allows a simpler Self DBS application pathway. |
| How long does a Self DBS check take? | Processing times vary based on the check type and local police searches. A correctly submitted Self Employed DBS application can help avoid delays, and using a specialist provider can make the Self DBS submission smoother. |
| How can your sister company help? | Our sister company focuses specifically on Self Employed DBS applications and supports applicants through the correct Umbrella Body route. If you want help with your Self Employed DBS check or your Self DBS application, you can apply at self-employed-dbs.co.uk. |
Next step: apply for your Self DBS
If you have been waiting for a proper way to apply, this change makes it much easier to access the correct checks.
A compliant Self Employed DBS check helps you build trust, meet safeguarding expectations, and win work faster. A correctly submitted Self DBS check helps you avoid confusion, delays, and incorrect certificate levels.
To get started, visit self-employed-dbs.co.uk and complete your Self Employed DBS and Self DBS application online.