From 1st September 2026, an important DBS rule change will affect organisations that use volunteers and some other supervised workers to teach, train, instruct, care for or supervise children.
The change removes the existing supervision exemption from regulated activity with children. This means that being supervised will no longer automatically keep an otherwise qualifying role outside regulated activity.
For many organisations, particularly schools, childcare providers, sports clubs, youth organisations and charities, this means it is important to review volunteer roles and existing DBS checks before 1 September.
Some people who previously had an Enhanced DBS check without Children’s Barred List information may now be eligible for an Enhanced DBS check with a Children’s Barred List check.
This guide, from DBS Check Online, explains the DBS rule change from September 2026, who may be affected and what organisations should consider doing now.