UK Government Expands Enhanced DBS Checks to Self-Employed Workers

London, UK — New UK government legislation that came into effect on 21 January 2026 now allows self-employed individuals and personal employees to apply directly for Enhanced DBS checks and Enhanced DBS checks with Barred List(s) through a registered DBS umbrella body — closing a long-standing gap in the safeguarding system.

Under the previous rules, self-employed people could only obtain a Basic DBS check, with higher-level checks like Enhanced DBS available only if an employer or organisation applied on their behalf.

The recent change means that professionals such as private tutors working with children or personal carers employed directly by private individuals can now independently secure more detailed background checks, provided their role is legally eligible.

The move is designed to strengthen safeguarding protections for vulnerable groups by giving individuals who hire self-employed workers greater confidence and oversight when checking criminal records and barred-list status. Applicants must apply through a DBS registered umbrella body, and standard DBS fees apply.

Source: GOV.UK — Disclosure and Barring Service (UK government announcement).

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