What the removal of supervision exemption means for volunteers working with children
On 1 September 2026, the UK Government will remove the supervision exemption for volunteers working directly with children in a regulated activity.
At TrustID, we’ve teamed up with our sister company, uCheck, to bring you everything you need to know about these changes.
We’ve included a summary below, but you can find the full update over on uCheck’s website.
Key takeaways
- The definition of regulated activity has been changed by removing the supervision exemption – whereby unpaid activities (e.g. teaching, training, or caring for children) weren’t classed as regulated activity if supervised by a regulated adult (e.g. class teacher)
- Changes come into force on 1 September 2026
- Changes were enacted by the Crime and Policing Act 2026
- All volunteers engaging in regulated activity will need an Enhanced DBS check with a Children’s Barred List check
- Schools and colleges have a responsibility to check all of their volunteers, and immediately remove any individuals who are found on the Children’s Barred List
Further support from TrustID
If you have any concerns about safeguarding following these new changes, we’re here to advise. Get in touch on 0118 228 0939 or email enquiries@trustid.co.uk.
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