DBS Checks & Criminal Record Checks

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Care Check is a leading umbrella body for the Disclosure and Barring Service and has been named one of the top 8 providers for criminal record checks in the UK.

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How Do I Get A DBS For Myself?

Here at Care Check, we are frequently asked by freelancers, sole traders, and contractors: “Can I apply for a DBS check on myself?”

The short answer is yes, but the level of check you can access depends entirely on your specific circumstances, the nature of your work and the vulnerabilities that you may encounter. As one of the UK’s leading DBS providers, we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the process.


Basic DBS Check : Available to All

If you are self-employed, or simply want a copy of your criminal record for your own peace of mind, the Basic DBS Check is the only level you can apply for directly as an individual.

  • What it shows: Any ‘unspent’ convictions or conditional cautions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
  • Who can apply: Any individual living or working in England and Wales. (Note: if you are in Scotland, you must apply via Disclosure Scotland).

The Benefit: Carrying a recent Basic Disclosure can give you a significant competitive advantage. Whether you are a private tutor, a mobile therapist, or a tradesperson entering people’s homes, it provides immediate “vouchability” and builds trust with your clients.

Standard & Enhanced DBS Checks : Available with Eligibility

The most common misconception is that any self-employed person can simply “buy” a DBS check. Unfortunately, the law is very specific: individuals cannot apply for a Standard or Enhanced DBS check on themselves, unless they meet the eligibility criteria that enables them to do so.

This is because these higher-level checks are designed for employers to make a safe recruitment decision. By law, there must be a second party (an employer or a regulatory body) to “ask the exempted question” regarding spent convictions.

That said, from 21st January 2026, if your work involves “regulated activity”—such as working with children or vulnerable adults as a private nanny, or private tutor; or you’ll be exposed (or possibly exposed) to vulnerable adults or other groups requiring safeguarding, such as an Uber driver or a personal trainer; you will likely to able to secure a higher-level check as a self-employed person or a personal employee.

DBS Checks & Criminal Record Checks

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Getting A DBS for Individuals, Self-Employed and Personal Employees

Securing a DBS Check as an individual or self-employed professional is a powerful way to build immediate trust and credibility with potential clients and employers. For those working in private households—such as tutors, nannies, or cleaners—a valid certificate acts as a “seal of approval,” providing peace of mind to families who are inviting a stranger into their home or around their children. Beyond safety, having a check ready to present can significantly speed up the hiring process, giving you a competitive edge over others who may have to wait weeks for their paperwork to clear. Ultimately, it demonstrates a high level of professionalism and transparency, proving that you are committed to safeguarding and are fully vetted to work in sensitive environments.

Get your individual DBS Check from us here at Care Check by submitting our registration form.

New Changes For 2026

The DBS landscape has changed significantly over the last 18 months. If you haven’t applied for a check recently, here are two core things that you need to know:

  • Digital Identity Verification: The 2025 transition to digital-first ID is now the standard. For Basic checks, you can now use a certified Identity Service Provider (IDSP) to verify your identity remotely using your smartphone, eliminating the need to post original documents.
  • The End of BRPs (eVisas): For non-UK nationals, physical Biometric Residence Permits have been replaced by the eVisa system. You will now need to provide a “Share Code” alongside your application to prove your Right to Work and identity status.


Why Choose Care Check?

As an award-winning umbrella body, Care Check is dedicated to making the disclosure process as fast and seamless as possible. Our paperless system is Disclosure and Barring Service approved and offers:

  • Speed: Most Basic checks are returned in as little as 24–48 hours.
  • Expertise: Our incredibly knowledgeable team are always on hand to advise on eligibility and legislation.
  • Security: We are Cyber Essentials Plus accredited, ensuring your sensitive data is handled with the highest level of security.

Ready to get started? If you are looking for a Basic check for yourself, you can start your application online today. If you are an organisation looking to process checks for your contractors, please register here

For further assistance, please call our friendly team on 0333 777 8575 or email us at info@carecheck.co.uk.

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