If you’re your own boss, you may wonder about the rules surrounding DBS Checks for the self-employed.
Eligibility regarding DBS checks isn’t always straightforward at the best of times. At uCheck we’re always on hand to explain which check, if any, you’re eligible for.
Whether you’re self-employed or working with self-employed contractors, it’s important to be aware of the regulations surrounding pre-employment screening.
In this blog, we consider the issues and solutions surrounding DBS checks for the self-employed.
DBS checks for the self-employed: Which check are you eligible for?
If you’re looking to apply for a DBS check as an individual, the only type you can request is a basic check.
Self-employed people are unable to make the recruitment and suitability decision on themselves and are therefore unable to obtain their own Standard or Enhanced DBS Check.
A Basic DBS Check is the lowest form of criminal record check available, but will detail any unspent convictions an applicant may have.
By unspent conviction, we mean any conviction that has not been classed as ‘spent’ under the appropriate legislation. This means that any employer has the right to ask about these convictions. It’s only when they’re classed as ‘spent’ that disclosure of these convictions is restricted to certain roles. To learn more, you can check out our blog ‘What Is The Difference Between Spent And Unspent Convictions?’.
A basic check will be issued either by the Disclosure and Barring Service if you’re living and working in England and Wales, or Disclosure Scotland if you are living and working in Scotland.
A self-employed person who is eligible for a Standard or Enhanced DBS check can ask the organisation that wishes to contract their services to apply for their check.
This is likely to be the case if they’re engaging in regulated activity. Let’s take a closer look at what that means.
Self-employed DBS checks when you’re engaging in regulated activity
If you’re self-employed but are going to be working in an eligible role, or engaging in regulated activity, then you’ll typically be eligible for a higher level of DBS check.
So, how can you obtain this?
Only companies and organisations can request these higher levels of DBS check, meaning you can’t request them as an individual. If your role requires you to engage in regulated activity, such as offering healthcare, but you don’t work for a specific company, then any appropriate regulatory body may be able to apply for the correct DBS check on your behalf.
If you’re self-employed or a sole trader, you can ask the organisation you’re applying for a job through to obtain the disclosure on your behalf. For example, a tradesman who’s going to work in a specific school can ask that school to do the check for him.
In some instances, a DBS certificate will form part of a company’s decision as to whether to allow you to practice under their licence.
Alternatively, in some instances, if you are self-employed and eligible for a higher level of DBS check, your local council may be able to help you apply.
How to apply for a Basic DBS Check as an individual?
If you’re self-employed and living in England or Wales, you can apply for a Basic DBS Check using our simple online system. If you’re living or working in Scotland, you’ll need to apply directly through Disclosure Scotland to get a Basic DBS Check for yourself.
If you’re unsure of how to go about it, check out our easy step-by-step online application process. We’re here to make the process as simple and convenient as possible.
STEP ONE
Enter your personal details including your 5-year address history, personal information and payment details.
STEP TWO
Get your ID verified by an independent individual (not a partner or family member). To find out which forms of documentation you can use for ID, see the Government’s basic check guidance and policies.
STEP THREE
Your application will be processed by the DBS.
STEP FOUR
When the DBS have completed processing your check, you’ll be sent a certificate in the post. You’ll also be able to view your results online by logging in to the uCheck Platform.
Why get a DBS check when self-employed?
In a competitive market, a Basic DBS Check can set you apart from others and give potential clients extra confidence in choosing you. This is especially important if you work with vulnerable groups, handle sensitive information, or simply want to showcase your professionalism.
Here are some of the key benefits:
- Demonstrates professionalism: It shows potential clients that you’re proactive about safety and transparency.
- Builds trust: DBS checks provide evidence of your character and help reassure clients, especially those working with vulnerable groups (even if not legally required).
- Essential for some roles: It may be a requirement for certain self-employed positions.
- Quick and easy to obtain: The online application process is straightforward and results are usually available within 48 hours.
DBS Checks for self-employed people – a summary
DBS checks for the self-employed can be tricky to navigate, especially if you’re unsure about which is the most suitable level of check that you need.
We hope this blog has pointed you in the right direction, but what are the key points to remember when it comes to requesting DBS checks for the self-employed?
- An individual can always request a basic check – they just need to confirm whether it should be processed by the DBS or Disclosure Scotland, depending on where they live.
- If a self-employed individual is unsure about which level of check is suitable for their role, they can contact the DBS directly to confirm this.
- If they are eligible for a higher level of check, they can contact any regulatory body they may work with who regulates their practice, as this body may be able to apply for the check on their behalf.
To recap, individuals are only eligible to request a Basic DBS Check on themselves. Basic Checks have their uses and certificates are returned, on average, in under 48 hours.
Get your DBS checks with us!
If you’d like any more info on DBS checks for the self-employed, don’t hesitate to give us a call or contact us. You can apply for a number of DBS Checks through our simple online platform – most checks are completed within 48 hours.
