Self-employed professionals can now apply for their own Enhanced DBS checks

For the first time, self-employed professionals are now able to request their own Enhanced DBS checks.

This will be useful for self-employed private tutors, carers and therapists, and give personal employers increased confidence when it comes to inviting workers into their homes and places of work.

Beforehand, only organisations such as schools, hospitals or care providers could request these checks, leaving private employees without access to the same level of safeguarding information

Self-employed DBS check changes

These changes came into force on the 21^st of January 2026.

Previously, self-employed workers could only apply for a Basic DBS check and if they needed an Enhanced check, an employing organisation would have to apply on their behalf.

Now, self-employed professionals and personal employees who are paid for their roles will be able to apply for Enhanced or Enhanced with Barred List(s) checks through a DBS umbrella body, provided their role is eligible.

Hiring a contractor who needs a DBS check

If your organisation is hiring a self-employed worker or personal employee, then you cannot apply for a DBS check on their behalf – they must do this themselves.

To find out more about contracting, please contact Jaime on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com.