Parents Can Now Ask to See Your DBS Certificate
On 17 September 2026, the Disclosure and Barring Service launched a public awareness campaign called Every Check Helps. For anyone working self-employed with children or vulnerable adults, this is one of the most significant pieces of news since the law changed in January. The campaign has one central message, and it is refreshingly simple: “They […]
DBS fee reduction confirmed for 5th October 2026
DBS checks are set to become cheaper from Monday 5th October 2026. The Disclosure and Barring Service has announced lower fees for Basic, Standard and Enhanced checks, alongside a reduction in the annual cost of its Update Service. We welcome the announcement. Lower DBS fees will reduce the government charge paid by applicants and employers, […]
DBS Rules Changed on the 1st September 2026: What Self-Employed People Working With Children Need to Know
From 1 September 2026, an important change to the rules around working with children came into force. The supervision exemption has been removed from the definition of regulated activity with children. That sounds complicated, but the change itself is actually quite simple. Previously, some people who regularly worked with children were not considered to be […]
How to Get an Enhanced DBS Check for Myself
If you need an Enhanced DBS check and you do not have an employer to apply on your behalf, you now have a direct route. Since January 2026, self-employed workers in England and Wales can apply for an Enhanced DBS check for themselves for the first time. This guide explains who qualifies for an Enhanced […]
DBS Checks Across the UK
DBS Disputes and How to Challenge Your Certificate
DBS Checks for Sole Traders: What You Need to Know
A client has asked you for a DBS check. You work for yourself, you have no employer to arrange it, and you are not sure where to start. This guide explains which check applies to you, what changed in January 2026, and how the cost works in practice. What a DBS Check Shows A Disclosure […]
Can You Start Work Before Your DBS Check Comes Back?
How Much Does a DBS Check Cost?
Quick answer How much does a DBS check cost? Since 5th October 2026, the DBS fee is ยฃ20.00 for a Standard check and ยฃ41.00 for an Enhanced check, with or without a barred list check. The DBS Update Service costs ยฃ15 per year. These are the government fees, paid to DBS. A registered umbrella body […]