Since December 2023, we have been reporting on significant delays to the processing times of some DBS enhanced applications in relation to Local Police Force checks. The situation remains unchanged and is set to continue with ‘aged cases’ continuing to impact processing times.
The DBS aims to complete 80% of enhanced checks within 14 days, however they continue to acknowledge that some Local Police Forces are experiencing significant delays.
There are currently 4 Local Police Forces that the DBS are working with on recovery plans. These forces are Dyfed Powys, Hampshire, Kent, and Sussex. View the latest information sheet for more details.
Where HR Connect act as the Registered Body on behalf of the customer, any application that reaches a 60 day period at the Local Police Force stage, is escalated by the HR Connect directly with the DBS. HR Connect will do this automatically without the need for the customer or the applicant to request this. Following this escalation by HR Connect, the DBS will then take responsibility of escalating with the Local Police Forces every two weeks until a DBS result is returned. HR Connect have no control on the DBS processing times however continue to ensure checks are escalated as soon as possible to prevent further delays.
Should an applicant be experiencing severe financial hardship due to a delayed DBS check, the applicant can submit a Hardship Escalation directly to the DBS. To apply, the candidate will need to call 03000 200 190 or contact by email: CustomerServices@dbs.gsi.gov.uk.
