A recent change to DBS rules means eligible self-employed professionals can now apply for Enhanced DBS checks through a registered umbrella body – something that was previously only possible if an organisation applied on their behalf.
Samantha Vaughan, Chief Product Officer at Complete Background Screening (CBS), says the update reflects how working patterns have evolved, with more people operating independently in roles that involve trust and responsibility.
“Over the past few years we’ve seen a rise in self-employed professionals working directly with families or vulnerable individuals,” Samantha said. “That includes tutors, carers, therapists and personal assistants. Until recently many of those individuals could only obtain a basic DBS check, even if their work involved a higher level of responsibility.”
Samantha believes the change helps bring safeguarding expectations more in line with the reality of modern working arrangements.
“This update gives eligible self-employed professionals the option to demonstrate the same level of transparency you would expect in sectors such as education or healthcare,” she said.
Samantha has outlined five things employers, families and self-employed professionals should understand about the new rules.
- Self-employed workers may now be eligible for Enhanced DBS checks
The biggest change is that eligible self-employed individuals can now apply for Enhanced DBS checks through a registered umbrella body, provided the role meets the legal eligibility criteria.
“This gives professionals working independently a clearer route to obtaining the appropriate level of safeguarding check,” Samantha said.
- The check must still match the role
Eligibility rules have not changed. The role must still involve regulated activity or responsibilities that justify an Enhanced DBS check.
“It’s important that the level of screening matches the nature of the work,” Samantha said.
- Applications still need to go through an umbrella body
Self-employed individuals cannot apply directly to the Disclosure and Barring Service. Applications must still be submitted through a registered DBS umbrella body.
“The umbrella body ensures the application is processed correctly and meets the necessary eligibility requirements,” Samantha said.
- Enhanced checks provide more detailed safeguarding information
An Enhanced DBS check can include details of convictions, cautions and relevant police information. In some cases, it may also include checks against barred lists.
“These checks are designed for roles where individuals may have close or unsupervised contact with children or vulnerable adults,” Samantha said.
- Families and personal employers can still ask to see the certificate
Even though the individual applies for the check themselves, families and personal employers can request to see the DBS certificate before making a decision.
“That helps people make informed choices when they are inviting someone into their home or placing them in a position of trust.”
Samantha says the change highlights how safeguarding processes need to evolve alongside modern working patterns.
“The way people work is changing. More professionals are self-employed and providing services directly to individuals and families,” she said. “This update helps make sure safeguarding standards keep pace with that shift.”
Based in South Wales, Complete Background Screening (CBS) is one of the UK’s most trusted providers of pre-employment and DBS checks for universities and other organisations. Founded in 2005, CBS supports clients across the UK and internationally, including higher education institutions, NHS trusts, local authorities, global brands, charities, G4S & ITV.
The company combines regulatory expertise with a people-first approach, delivering reliable, tech-enabled screening that helps organisations stay compliant, protect students and staff, and build trust.