Upcoming changes to DBS checks
This week the Disclosure and Barring Service announced legislative changes that will come into effect from the 1st September which will impact the eligibility for DBS checks of individuals doing certain types of roles with children.
The change will apply to certain roles regardless of whether they are voluntary or paid positions. DBS have recently outlined what the changes mean in the following online article- Change to the definition of regulated activity with children from 1 September 2026 – GOV.UK. There are some useful examples in this link of where changes may be in play, and what is now considered a regulated activity.
We know that these announcements will raise for concerns for groups with volunteers who are working with or alongside children. We have been in touch with the DBS service and they have shared that each month the Outreach team delivers a free online workshop for organisations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. These workshops delivered after the 1st September will cover the most up to date legislation. More information about the workshops and how to register for a place on one can be found on Eventbrite by clicking on the following hyperlink- Eventbrite DBS Eligibility and Disclosure Workshops .
We also share the details of the DBS service, including contact details and articles on our website page Resources for Volunteering.