DBS Checks for Church & Faith Workers
What Is a DBS Check for Church & Faith Workers?
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a criminal record check. For church and faith workers, the level of check depends on who you work with and how regularly.
If you work with children or vulnerable adults through a church or faith organisation on a regular basis, an Enhanced DBS check is required. The Church of England, Catholic Church, and most other denominations mandate safeguarding checks.
The correct level for your role is typically: Enhanced + Barred (Children).
Do Self-Employed Church & Faith Workers Need a DBS Check?
If you work with children or vulnerable adults through a church or faith organisation on a regular basis, an Enhanced DBS check is required. The Church of England, Catholic Church, and most other denominations mandate safeguarding checks.
Working across more than one role? Compare the guides for Scout, Guide & cadet leaders and volunteers, or see all community and faith DBS checks.
Apply for Your DBS Check. Get your DBS check as a self-employed church and faith workers fully online from self-employed-dbs.co.uk.
The January 2026 law change allows self-employed workers in regulated activity to apply for Enhanced DBS checks independently for the first time. If your role involves regular work with children or vulnerable adults, you can now apply through a registered platform without needing an employer.
Read more in our guide to DBS changes in 2025 and 2026.
What Type of DBS Check Do Church & Faith Workers Need?
Enhanced DBS with Children’s Barred List for children’s work. Adults’ Barred List for pastoral care of vulnerable adults.
Our DBS checks for self-employed people guide explains eligibility in detail.
How to Get a DBS Check as a Self-Employed Church & Faith Workers
The process is straightforward and can be completed entirely online.
Check eligibility
Check your eligibility based on who you work with and how often.
Register an account
Apply through our platform or GOV.UK depending on the level needed.
Complete application
Personal details, 5 years of addresses, and your role information.
Verify your identity
Digitally via biometric passport or EU ID card, or with standard documents.
Receive certificate
Posted directly to you. Show to employers, clients, and institutions as needed.
How Long Does a DBS Check Take for Church & Faith Workers?
Basic and Enhanced DBS checks typically complete within 14 days. Enhanced checks are processed via e-Bulk electronic submission.
Read more about how long a DBS check takes.
How Much Does a DBS Check Cost for Church & Faith Workers?
DBS fees are set by the government and change from time to time, so we keep every current price in one place. See our self-employed DBS check costs page for today’s DBS fees and our admin fees.
You only pay once your application is complete and you have confirmed the level of check you need.
This guide applies to self-employed workers in England and Wales only. Self-employed workers in Scotland should apply through Disclosure Scotland. In Northern Ireland, the equivalent service is AccessNI. This page is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions about your specific circumstances, contact our support team or consult a qualified legal adviser.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most popular questions we get about DBS Checks and our Platform
Do church and faith workers need a DBS check?
If you work with children or vulnerable adults through a church or faith organisation on a regular basis, an Enhanced DBS check is required.
Can I get a DBS check without an employer?
Yes. Basic checks through GOV.UK. Enhanced checks through a registered platform from January 2026 for those in regulated activity.
Which level of DBS check do I need?
Enhanced DBS with Children’s Barred List for children’s work.
How long is a DBS certificate valid?
No official expiry date. Most settings expect a certificate less than three years old, or an active DBS Update Service subscription.
What is the DBS Update Service?
The Update Service is an annual subscription that lets employers or clients verify your certificate status online with your consent.
How much does a DBS check cost for church and faith workers?
It depends on the level of check your role needs. DBS fees are set by the government and change from time to time, so we keep all current prices on our self-employed DBS check costs page.
Do I need a new DBS for each client or employer?
Not with the DBS Update Service. Each new client or setting can verify your existing certificate online.