DBS & Background Screening Resources for the Self Employed
Latest Articles & Free Resources
This resource hub brings together practical guidance on DBS checks and background screening for sole traders and freelancers. It provides independent professionals with the clear, up-to-date information required to secure contracts, verify suitability to clients, and meet industry regulations.
Access expert guides, regulatory updates, and practical insights covering the individual screening process, from understanding which checks you are eligible to request for yourself through to maintaining ongoing compliance.
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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 ...
Lost Your DBS Certificate? Here Is What to Do
The DBS does not issue replacement certificates. If you have lost your DBS certificate, your options depend on whether you registered for the DBS Update Service when the certificate was issued. If you did, losing ...
What Is Regulated Activity?
Regulated activity is the legal concept that determines who needs an Enhanced DBS check with a barred list element, and who is legally prohibited from working with children or vulnerable adults. Whether your role constitutes ...
Basic vs Standard vs Enhanced DBS Checks Explained
There are three levels of DBS check in England and Wales, and each one reveals different information. The level you need depends on the type of work you do and who you work with. This ...