Blackburn-based Personnel Checks has launched MyCheck, a dedicated DBS checking service for self-employed individuals, following legislative changes that have opened up access to Enhanced DBS checks for thousands of workers across the UK.
MyCheck launched on July 1, developed in response to growing demand from freelancers, contractors, sole traders and other independent professionals who require DBS certification to secure work opportunities across a range of sectors.
While many background screening providers offer DBS checks as part of wider compliance services, MyCheck is the first dedicated brand created specifically to support the DBS checking needs of self-employed workers.
The launch follows a period of significant growth for the Blackburn-headquartered business, which processes more than 150,000 DBS checks annually and has grown by more than 300 per cent over the past five years.
MyCheck enables individuals to apply online for Basic DBS Checks and, where eligible, Enhanced DBS Checks through a streamlined digital process supported by secure identity verification and specialist guidance.
A key feature of the service is its eligibility assessment, helping applicants determine whether they qualify for an Enhanced DBS Check before beginning the application process.
The launch follows changes introduced by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in January 2026, allowing eligible self-employed individuals and personal employees to apply for Enhanced DBS checks through a registered umbrella body for the first time.
Previously, self-employed workers could only apply for Basic DBS checks directly, while Enhanced DBS applications generally had to be submitted by an employing organisation on their behalf.
The reforms have created new opportunities for independent professionals working in sectors such as education, childcare, care, coaching and community services, many of whom now need access to Enhanced DBS certification.
The service is available across England, Wales and Northern Ireland and is backed by the expertise of Personnel Checks, one of the UK’s established providers of background screening and compliance services.
Jack Mellor, CEO of Personnel Checks (pictured), said: “The government’s decision to allow eligible self-employed individuals to apply for Enhanced DBS checks is an important and welcome change that reflects how the modern workforce is progressing.
“We immediately recognised that while the legislation had created a new route to Enhanced DBS certification, there wasn’t a dedicated service built specifically around the needs of self-employed people.
“Many individuals are understandably unsure whether they are eligible for an Enhanced DBS check, which level of screening they require, or how the application process works. Through processing more than 150,000 DBS checks every year, we see those challenges first-hand.
“MyCheck has been created to remove that uncertainty. We’ve built a platform that helps self-employed professionals understand their eligibility, access the appropriate level of check and receive expert support throughout the process.
“Whether someone is a private tutor, sports coach, care professional, personal assistant or freelancer working with vulnerable groups, they should have access to a simple and trusted route to obtaining the correct DBS certification.”
MyCheck has been designed to remove much of the complexity often associated with background screening through clear guidance, transparent pricing and a fully online application journey.
The launch forms part of Personnel Check’s wider strategy to develop specialist compliance and screening services that respond to changing workforce trends and evolving regulatory requirements.
Personnel Checks will continue to provide comprehensive screening solutions for employers and organisations, while MyCheck focuses exclusively on supporting individuals seeking their own DBS certification.
For more information, visit www.mycheck.co.uk.
