Enhanced DBS checks available to the self-employed, the Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme launches to SMEs, and WorkWell rolls out to support 250,000 workers
There’s lots to celebrate this week as self-employed workers are now able to apply for enhanced DBS checks rather than just basic, the Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme is launched to support SMEs, and workers on long-term sick leave could benefit from the WorkWell scheme.
Self-employed workers able to apply for enhanced DBS checks
From 21 January 2026, new legislation allows self-employed individuals and personal employees to apply for Enhanced and Enhanced with Barred List(s) DBS checks in their own right for the first time.
Until now, self-employed people could only obtain a Basic DBS check. Where an Enhanced check was needed, an employing organisation had to apply on their behalf, which was not always possible when someone was working directly for individuals.
What’s changing
Under the new rules, self-employed workers and personal employees who are paid for their role will be able to apply for Enhanced DBS checks themselves, provided their role is eligible.
Applications must be made through a DBS umbrella body, rather than directly to DBS.
This change is expected to be particularly relevant for:
- Private tutors providing lessons directly to children.
- Carers or support workers hired directly by individuals.
What isn’t changing
The eligibility criteria for DBS checks remain the same. Only roles that already qualify under existing DBS legislation will be eligible.
Where someone works for, or is contracted by, an organisation, the existing process still applies. Employers can continue to apply for DBS checks on behalf of their staff in the usual way.
How applications will work
Self-employed individuals and personal employees will need to apply through a registered DBS umbrella body. These organisations are authorised to process DBS checks and submit applications to DBS.
The existing DBS fees still apply, and umbrella bodies may charge an additional administration fee. A list of suitable umbrella bodies can be found using the find an Umbrella Body tool on GOV.UK.
If you’re hiring someone directly
If you are hiring a self-employed worker or a personal employee, you cannot apply for a DBS check on their behalf. Instead, the individual being hired must make their own application through an umbrella body.
When recruiting, you can ask to see the applicant’s original DBS certificate and use the free DBS Update Service to check whether it is still current.
If you are working independently in roles involving children or vulnerable adults, this change should make it easier to obtain the appropriate level of DBS check without relying on an organisation to apply on your behalf.
Small Business Britain Launches ‘Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme’ to Support Small Businesses
Small Business Britain is set to roll out its Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme, a six-week online course designed to help sole traders and micro businesses unlock growth opportunities.
The programme combines expert guidance, mentoring, and practical resources to equip participants with a twelve-month action plan to grow and flourish over the next year. Delivered entirely online, it offers flexible learning accessible from anywhere in the UK, making it suitable for business owners with busy schedules.
Key features of the programme include:
- Live weekly sessions recorded and available on a private Small Business Britain website available exclusively to participants.
- Weekly worksheets developed by each week’s expert trainers to reinforce key learning outcomes.
- 1-2-1 and group mentoring, providing one hour of personalised guidance across the six weeks.
- Access to an exclusive community of peers and mentors for networking, advice, and sharing experiences.
- A personalised twelve-month Action Plan to guide business growth.
The course runs from 2 February to 9 March 2026, with sessions held every Monday at 10am.
Small business owners looking to develop their skills, expand their networks, and plan for growth can find more information and register via the Small & Mighty Enterprise Programme Registration page.
WorkWell to roll out across England
A national expansion of WorkWell, a health-and-employment support service, is set to take place across England, following a successful pilot that helped more than 25,000 people stay in or return to work.
The programme aims to support up to 250,000 more people with health conditions, and forms part of the government’s wider efforts to tackle long-term sickness absence and economic inactivity.
For employers, the key point is that WorkWell is designed as an early intervention service – stepping in before health issues lead to prolonged absence or an employee leaving work altogether.
Long-term sickness remains a significant issue for businesses. Around 2.8 million people are currently out of work due to long-term health conditions, and fit notes are issued more than 11 million times a year.
How employees can access support
Participants in the programme can be referred through:
- Their employer.
- A GP.
- Jobcentre Plus.
- Local services.
- Self-referral.
Each participant receives personalised support from a Work and Health Coach. Services offered vary depending on location, but can include physiotherapy, mental health support, workplace adjustment advice for employers and ongoing health condition management.
Businesses may want to be aware of WorkWell as a referral option for staff struggling with health issues.