DBS Unveils Campaign to Empower Parents and Carers in Choosing Self-Employed Workers Wisely

Parents and guardians throughout England, Wales, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man are being urged to implement an extra layer of safeguarding when hiring self-employed professionals and personal staff. This initiative coincides with the launch of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) new public awareness campaign, titled “Every Check Helps.”

Empowering Informed Choices

The primary goal of this campaign is to enhance the understanding of parents and carers regarding the information that may be accessible when they employ individuals such as tutors, sports coaches, music instructors, personal assistants, or carers. This information can play a vital role in making safer recruitment and safeguarding decisions.

This initiative follows significant legislative amendments that came into effect in January 2026, allowing eligible self-employed individuals and personal staff to apply for Enhanced DBS checks as well as, where applicable, Enhanced DBS checks that include Children’s and/or Adults’ Barred List checks for the very first time.

Research and insights from stakeholders have revealed that a considerable number of parents and carers are not aware that self-employed workers can obtain Enhanced DBS checks. Additionally, many may feel uncertain about requesting to view such checks during the recruitment process. The campaign is designed to raise awareness, enhance understanding, and bolster confidence among parents and guardians, thereby aiding them in making safer and more informed selections.

Key Messages for Safer Recruitment

At the centre of the campaign lies a straightforward message: “They can get a DBS check. You can ask to see it.” The initiative encourages parents and carers to view DBS information as a crucial component of a broader decision-making framework when selecting individuals to work with their children or vulnerable family members.

It is essential to note that parents and guardians are not permitted to apply for a DBS check on behalf of another individual. Eligible self-employed workers and personal staff must submit their applications independently through a DBS Umbrella Body. Subsequently, parents and guardians may inquire whether an individual possesses a DBS certificate and if they are willing to disclose it.

Guidance for Parents and Carers

In conjunction with the campaign, the DBS has released guidance outlining what parents and guardians should examine when reviewing a DBS certificate. This includes ensuring they are presented with the original certificate, verifying that it pertains to the appropriate workforce, checking the issue date of the certificate, and understanding how the DBS Update Service can offer additional reassurance.

This guidance aims to empower parents and guardians by clarifying what information they should seek and how DBS information can be integrated with other recruitment and safeguarding considerations.

Government Commitment to Child Safety

Satvir Kaur, the Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, highlighted the importance of feeling secure about the individuals entrusted with children. She stated, “With self-employed individuals who work with children now able to obtain enhanced checks, parents and carers will have more options to ensure the safety of their families. This is part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to child safety, supported by substantial funding and reinforced legislation.”

Susie Blamire, Associate Director and Strategic Lead for Safeguarding at the DBS, remarked on the significance of Enhanced DBS checks for eligible self-employed workers. She noted that these checks allow tutors, coaches, and other independent professionals to provide crucial safeguarding information.

Blamire further emphasised that while a DBS certificate is a valuable tool, it should be considered alongside references, recommendations, qualifications, experience, and personal judgement to develop a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s suitability.

Accessing Further Resources

Parents and guardians are encouraged to explore the guidance available on GOV.UK to better comprehend the DBS information that may be accessible, how it can facilitate informed decision-making, and what to consider when someone presents a DBS certificate.

From 21 January 2026, eligible self-employed workers and personal staff will be able to apply for Enhanced DBS checks, including the option for Children’s and/or Adults’ Barred List checks. The “Every Check Helps” campaign is designed to assist parents and guardians in making well-informed choices when hiring individuals to work with their children or vulnerable family members.

It is important for parents and guardians to remember that they cannot apply for a DBS check on behalf of someone else; eligible individuals must apply themselves through a DBS Umbrella Body. An Enhanced DBS certificate should be evaluated in conjunction with references, qualifications, experience, recommendations, and personal judgement.

Resources for this campaign include comprehensive guidance on GOV.UK, leaflets for parents and guardians, partner communication materials, and practical advice on verifying DBS certificates.