Self-Employed Enhanced DBS Check
If you are self-employed and work with children or vulnerable adults, you may be eligible for an Enhanced DBS check.
Our service provides a simple way for eligible self-employed professionals to apply online for an Enhanced DBS check, with clear guidance throughout the process.
About Self-Employed Enhanced DBS Check
An Enhanced DBS check is the highest level of criminal record check available. It can include details of spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings held on police records. It also includes a check of the Police National Computer, and will include any information the Police feel are relevant.
In certain roles, it may also include checks of the children’s barred list and/or adults’ barred list, depending on the type of work being carried out.
Enhanced DBS checks are usually required for roles involving work with children or vulnerable adults, where safeguarding is an important part of the role.
Why Self Employed Professionals Get a Basic DBS Check
An Enhanced DBS check is commonly required for self-employed professionals whose work involves contact with children or vulnerable adults.
Having an Enhanced DBS certificate can help demonstrate that you meet safeguarding expectations and that you take your professional responsibilities seriously.
Many professionals require an Enhanced DBS check when:
▶ Working directly with children
▶ Providing services to vulnerable adults
▶ Carrying out roles where safeguarding is a key responsibility
▶ Being asked by a client, organisation, or authority to provide an Enhanced DBS certificate
For many self-employed professionals working in eligible roles, an Enhanced DBS check is an important part of demonstrating trust, professionalism, and safeguarding compliance.
Your Basic DBS Application Process
Create An Account
Enter a few basic details to create your account and begin your DBS application.
Fill Out Your Application
You will be asked which level of DBS check you require. Once selected, simply enter your details, such as name and address history, into the online application form.
Complete a Digital ID Check
You will be sent an email to complete a digital ID check from one of our trusted providers. This can be completed by either using your passport or online banking. You can choose what you prefer!
You’re Done!
Once your digital ID check has been completed, our team will review your application and submit it to the DBS for processing. You will be able to log in to your account to track the progress of your application and will also receive email updates as it progresses.
Information Required
To complete a Self-Employed Enhanced DBS Check, you will need to be able to provide the following:
Name History
You must provide every first name, middle name, and surname you know been legally known by.
5 Year Address History
The DBS require applicants to enter their 5 year address history, with no gaps. It is important every address is included.
Birth Details
Such as the year you were born, the city, and the country.
Digital ID Check
To complete your digital ID check, you must have one of the following:
A biometric passport;
A non-biometric passport + UK driving licence;
Online banking.
Self-Employed Basic DBS Check
Requirements
Must be legally eligible for the check – please check Enhanced DBS Eligibilty Guidance.
Who is it for
Self-employed professionals working with, or around, children.
Self-employed professionals working with vulnerable adults.
Roles where safeguarding checks are required for the work being carried out.
Self-Employed Enhanced DBS Check
What Is an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS check is the highest level of criminal record check available in the UK.
It can include details of both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings held on police records. In certain roles, it may also include a check of the children’s barred list and/or adults’ barred list, depending on the type of work being carried out.
Enhanced DBS checks are typically required for roles involving work with children or vulnerable adults, where safeguarding is an important part of the position.
For self-employed professionals who carry out eligible work with vulnerable groups, an Enhanced DBS check helps demonstrate that they meet the safeguarding expectations of their role.
Do Self-Employed People Need an Enhanced DBS Check?
An Enhanced DBS check is not required for all self-employed work. It is only appropriate for roles that qualify under the DBS eligibility rules.
Many self-employed professionals require an Enhanced DBS check when their work involves direct contact with children or vulnerable adults, particularly where safeguarding responsibilities are involved.
In these situations, organisations, clients, or regulatory bodies may ask for an Enhanced DBS certificate before allowing the work to take place.
How Often Should an Enhanced DBS Check Be Updated?
There is no official expiry date for a DBS certificate. However, many organisations prefer to see a certificate that has been issued within the last 12 months, or is on the DBS Update Service.
Why Choose Self-Employed DBS Check For Your Enhanced Check?
Applying for a DBS check as a self-employed professional can sometimes feel confusing, especially when most DBS services are designed for employers rather than individuals. Our service has been created specifically to make the process simple for self-employed professionals.
Designed for Self-Employed Professionals
Our service is built specifically for freelancers, sole traders, and independent professionals who need a DBS check for their work.
Simple Online Application
The entire application process can be completed online, from creating your account to verifying your identity.
Clear and Straightforward Process
We guide you through each step of the application to make the process as simple as possible.
Professional and Trusted Service
Once your application is complete, it will be reviewed and submitted to the DBS for processing.
Track Your Application Progress
You can log in to your account at any time to see the progress of your application and receive updates as it moves through the process.
PDF Summary Available
Unlike other providers, as soon as your DBS check is complete, you can view a PDF summary of your results by logging in to your account. This can be shown to clients and employers whilst you wait for the physical certificate to be delivered.
Courses
Other DBS Checks
Basic DBS Check
Basic DBS Check
Can be requested for any role to show your criminal history.