New DBS requirements for supervised volunteers and staff working with children

From 1 September 2026, the definition of regulated activity with children is changing. The change will affect organisations across all sectors that have paid staff or volunteers who teach, train, instruct, care for or supervise children.

The current supervision exemption is being removed. This means some people who were previously not considered to be undertaking regulated activity because they were sufficiently supervised by someone else may now be eligible for an Enhanced DBS check with a Children’s Barred List check. This applies where they undertake the activity frequently enough or overnight.

The 1st September 2026 is an eligibility change date, not a deadline. Organisations will need to decide whether new DBS checks are required, and when they should be obtained, in line with their safeguarding arrangements and any relevant sector guidance.

You can find out more about the changes here