How to determine if a DBS check is required

To determine if you need a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, use the official GOV.UK eligibility tool to see if your specific activities with children or vulnerable adults legally require one. Carrying out regulated activity without the correct check is a serious oversight that can affect your insurance and professional reputation.

Who needs a DBS check?

If your creative business involves more than just selling products—for example, if you are teaching art workshops in schools, providing photography services at youth centres, or running craft sessions in care homes—you likely need a check. The requirement usually depends on:

• Frequency: Is the work regular (once a week or more) or intensive (4 days in a 30-day period)?
• Location: Are you working in a "specified place" like a school or nursery?
• Nature of work: Are you providing teaching, training, or supervision?

Levels of DBS checks

There are four main types of checks in the UK:

1. Basic: Shows unspent convictions. Anyone can apply for this.
2. Standard: Shows spent and unspent convictions and cautions.
3. Enhanced: Same as standard, plus any relevant information held by local police.
4. Enhanced with Barred Lists: Checks if you are specifically prohibited from working with children or adults.

Note for Sole Traders: You cannot apply for a Standard or Enhanced DBS check on yourself. If you are self-employed and require one of these levels for a contract, you must usually apply through an "Umbrella Body" or the organisation that is hiring your services.

How to check your status

Visit the GOV.UK DBS eligibility tool. It will ask a series of questions about your role and the people you are working with to tell you exactly which level of check is appropriate for your business activities.