A Guide To DBS Checks for Self-Employed People
Self-employed people work for themselves, without a direct boss or employer. If you are self-employed, you may be wondering how the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) rules apply to you.
In some cases, self-employed workers are taken on by clients to perform activities in environments that need safeguarding protection or involve direct contact with children or vulnerable adults.
In this article, we’ll explain what self-employed people need to do regarding DBS Checks and how eligibility works for different levels of DBS Check.
What type of DBS Checks are self-employed people able to get?
There are three levels of DBS Check – basic, standard, and enhanced.
The level of check that self-employed workers need to get depends on the responsibilities of the role in question. We’ll now take a look at each type of DBS Check from lowest to highest and the eligibility criteria for each.
Basic DBS Check
A Basic DBS Check is a criminal background check that searches through the police national computer and reveals any unspent convictions and conditional cautions only.
A Basic DBS Check can be requested by any individual aged 16 years or older and the applications can be submitted directly, without the need to go through an employer or agency.
Basic DBS Checks are typically used for jobs that do not involve working in contact with children or vulnerable adults and don’t involve high levels of financial responsibility.
A Basic DBS Check helps to demonstrate that you have a trustworthy character to potential employers. It may also be useful for self-employed people who want to work abroad, such as teaching English abroad.
You can easily apply for a Basic DBS check by using our online service. All you need to do is follow these 4 simple steps:
- Step 1 – Fill in the application form with your personal details, including your address history going back 5 years and payment details.
- Step 2 – Provide ID copies of ID documents that have been verified by an individual who is not related to you or a close partner or friend.
- Step 3 – Check all your details and submit the online form.
- Step 4 – We check the application form and ID verification, then submit it to the DBS for processing. We provide the results with you when they come through (usually within 24 hours) and the certificate will be posted to your home address within two weeks.
How do regulated activities work?
If you work in a regulated activity, it means that you work in direct contact with children or vulnerable adults on a frequent basis. A regulated activity requires the highest level check which is an Enhanced DBS Check, and you also need to get a barred list check at the same time.
Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks are not available upon request by an individual, even a self employed person. If you plan to work in a contractor role for an employer, then it is up to them to apply for a DBS check on your behalf.
If you work for a registered organisation, then you may also qualify for a higher level of DBS Check. Self-employed people who work in childcare or childminding may need to go through an agency or registered umbrella party to complete the DBS Check legally
Another option for self-employed people is to ask your local council for a DBS Check as they may be able to apply on your behalf.
Summary of DBS Checks for self-employed people
Self-employed individuals are only able to request a Basic DBS Check without the use of a registered body, local council, or DBS umbrella organisation.
Basic DBS Checks typically take around 48 hours to process and return the results.
You can apply for a Basic DBS Check today here at DBSchecks.org.uk.
If you’d like to find out more about DBS Checks, including any questions around DBS Checks for self-employed people, then get in touch today.
