How do i DBS Check my Nanny?

What is a DBS Check?  

A DBS Check (Previously known as a CRB check) is a criminal record check, which gives employers the information they need to make a safe and informed recruitment decision. DBS Checks are very common in the childcare industry.

Working with children is what the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) would generally consider ‘regulated activity’. Regulated Activity is defined by the DBS as ‘work that a barred person must not do i.e., someone barred from working with children would be breaking the law by applying to work at a school.

Anyone carrying out regulated activity would normally be entitled to a fully Enhanced DBS Check.  

Can we Get an Enhanced DBS Check for our nanny?  

Up until January 2026, Enhanced DBS Checks could only be done by employers, licensing authorities or regulatory bodies when they are involved in regulated activity. These rules were in place to minimise the volume of unnecessary or unlawful DBS Checks being carried out. However, as of January 21st 2026, the DBS have change their rules which means that self-employed individuals like nannies can now apply for an Enhanced DBS Check - as long as they meet the normal eligibility requirements.

While you the family employer cannot process a DBS Check for your nanny, they can now apply directly themselves.

Once the DBS check has been completed and the certificate has been issued, you can ask your nanny to present this certificate to you so that you can be sure they are appropriately vetted before caring for your children.

How do we know we’re leaving our children in safe hands?  

Whilst there are many childcare professionals out there, childcare arrangements are often made with people you know. Retired neighbours, relatives and teenagers (looking for some extra pocket money) are some of the most commonly employed casual ‘sitters’.   

Verbal or written references from previous customers are invaluable in this situation. Speaking to previous clients can help lessen your concerns. However, it is understandable why parents would seek a candidate with a DBS Check.

Basic DBS Checks are an option. They can be carried out by anyone and would show any ‘unspent’ convictions on someone’s record. This could provide some reassurance about the type of person you are dealing with.  

Many people in the childcare industry already have Enhanced DBS Checks in place. Either from previous employers or through a current childcare role. If this DBS Certificate is registered to the DBS Update Service, you can view this information online. The DBS Update Service is a system that allows people to register their DBS information and then provide employers with a code so they can check the most up-to-date DBS record.

How to get an Enhanced DBS Check for your Nanny

There are a couple of options if you are trying to get an Enhanced DBS Checks for your nanny. It essentially involves outsourcing the process.

Now that the rules have relaxed, you can refer your nanny to a DBS Umbrella Body like Personnel Checks. We can then speak to your nanny, get an application set up for them and get them started on their DBS journey.

Alternatively, you could get in touch with a reputable nanny agency and ask them if they would consider applying for an Enhanced DBS Check for your nanny. They will likely be partnered with a DBS Umbrella Body, like Personnel Checks, or could be a Registered Body themselves, if they process enough DBS Checks. They will likely charge you for this service, and in they might refuse. But it is worth a try.

If you have any questions about DBS Checks for your nanny, please don’t hesitate to call us on 01254 355688 or drop us an email at letstalk@personnelchecks.co.uk.