Mobile DNA sample collector

Individuals who need a witnessed test for legal, immigration or family reasons, plus solicitors and family law practices who need a reliable collector near the client.

A fee per appointment, often with extra for travel, evening or weekend visits and additional participants. Some labs pay you per collection, and some let you set your own price.

• Calm, discreet and non-judgemental with sensitive family situations
• Careful record-keeping and following procedures exactly
• Reliable, punctual and happy to travel

• Check the lab is accredited to the right standard and that its reports will be accepted for the purpose, such as court or Home Office use
• Under the Human Tissue Act 2004, testing someone's DNA without proper consent can be an offence, so follow consent and ID procedures strictly
• Check what insurance you need, including professional indemnity and public liability
• Check the rules on handling and storing personal data with the ICO, including whether you need to register and pay the data protection fee
• Emotionally sensitive work, including children and disputes, so keep clear boundaries and never give legal advice

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £500 to £3,000, depending on the equipment and supplies you need, your insurance and how you find clients. The accredited lab you work with does the testing and reporting.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £300 to £3,000, depending on how many appointments you take, how far you travel and whether you build links with local solicitors and family law practices. These are revenue figures, not profit.

Check the lab is accredited to the right standard and that its reports will be accepted for the purpose, such as court or Home Office use. Check Human Tissue Act 2004 consent rules, insurance, and data protection duties with the ICO.